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May 21, 1954
Telephone Calls
Harry Truman Memorial Library
1. President Alvin Dyer of the Central States Mission telephoned from Independence, Missouri. He reported that Mayor Weatherford of Independence came to his office yesterday and stated that there is a project underway to build a Harry Truman Memorial Library on the location of the Swope Mansion property, which is located immediately south of the Church property on the high level hill. The Mayor is requesting permission to build a roadway through our property from Pendleton Avenue, through Walnut Street to Pacific, which would bisect the Temple property.
I asked President Dyer as to the possibility of their condemning our property. He answered that Mayor Weatherford said he had made a statement to the brethren of the Church that he would never take such a step with the Church property here, and that he will keep his word. He explained that there is quite a sentiment in Independence that this Library will bring a million people to their city each year, and they base that figure on the number of people who visit the Roosevelt Memorial Library each year, and they assume it would be similar with the Harry Truman Memorial. The project will be a two and a half million dollar one. It will be built by a Foundation, and Mayor Weatherford said the money is available, and that when it is built it will be turned over to the Federal Government.
I then asked President Dyer if the Library can be built on some other spot, and he said that Harry Truman said if it cannot be built on this particular spot he will take it to another city. Three cities are after it.
I then said: ‘Suppose we do not grant that roadway?’ President Dyer answered that that subject had not been discussed by the Mayor. He says he does not want to condemn it. They feel that it is important to the City of Independence, but they want our permission to build it. I then stated: ‘If we do not grant permission, and the Library is taken to another town, the Church will be blamed.’ President Dyer said: ‘Yes, that is my understanding.’ The property on which they wish to build belongs to the Reorganized Church, and they have agreed to turn the property over for this library.
President Dyer stated that Mayor Weatherford will fly out to Salt Lake City for a conference with me if I feel that it is necessary to get a better picture of the whole matter. I answered that he need not fly out here, and if we deem it necessary for him to come, we shall get in touch with him without delay. (matter was followed through by correspondence of the First Presidency)
Fri., 28 May, 1954:
“(3) Harry Truman Library
Consideration was given to the proposition submitted by President Dyer of the Central States Mission pertaining to the erection of a Harry Truman Library on the Swope property in Independence, Missouri. It is proposed that Pendleton Street be extended from Walnut Street to Pacific Street, which would cover part of the Church’s property in Independence. The Brethren could see no objection to our permitting this to be done inasmuch as it would affect our property very little. However, it was decided to wait until we receive a map from President Dyer giving more details regarding the proposed roadway.
June 3, 1954
Notes on First Presidency’s meeting
Truman Memorial Library
We discussed the question which had been presented by Mayor Weatherford of Independence, Missouri, through President Dyer of the Central States Mission pertaining to our giving permission for the extension of Pendleton Street through our property from Walnut Avenue to Pacific Avenue, it being the intention to erect a Truman Library Memorial on the Swope Mansion property. The Brethren decided to answer the Mayor that we have asked President Dyer to call on him and explain the situation to him and get his reply and recommendation. Correspondence followed.
Later it was decided to send a wire to the mayor asking him to come to Salt Lake City to consider this matter. In answer to the wire sent to him, he replied that the purpose for which he would come to Salt Lake City no longer exist.”
Wed., 4 Apr., 1956:
“8:20 a.m. – Met by appointment Brother Alvin Dyer, President of the Central States Mission.
Pres. Dyer recommended that a Church be built at Liberty Jail right over the old Jail, retaining what remains of the original Jail, and then in the Church above put a Memorial Room giving the story of the incarceration of the Prophet and his companions, and the originals of the revelations received while at this Jail. Last year 2,000 persons visited that place – 1700 of the 2000 were our own people, and the others non-members.
The second point Brother Dyer brought up related to the property listed by the Gleaner Harvester Corporation. They would like to have a longer lease, and I think they should have it so that they can expand into the Wagner estate which joins the Church’s property leased by the Gleaner Harvester Corporation.
Brother Dyer then referred to the servicemen who are coming in government planes from the Scott Air Force, Belleville, Illinois, and another group from the Vance Air Force at Enid, Oklahoma. Arrangements will be made for a reserved section for these young men.
President Dyer left with me a map of the Temple Lot at Independence, also a picture of Alva Boggs, the great-grandson of Governor Boggs who promised to give the Prophet Joseph Smith protection when incarcerated in Liberty Jail, but who failed in his promise. His great-grandson has now joined the Church. Brother Dyer also left a copy of the testimony of this young man. (See copy of testimony following)
Sun., 6 Apr., 1958:
Elder Joseph T. Bentley was sustained as General Superintendent of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association, succeeding Elder Elbert R. Curtis.
Following talks by the above named General Authorities I gave the closing address.
On May 7, 1958, Elder Bentley chose, with the approval of the First Presidency, the following assistants:
Alvin R. Dyer, as First Ass’t. General Superintendent
G. Carlos Smith, Jr., as Second Ass’t. General Superintendent
(see newspaper clippings following.)”
Fri., 10 Oct., 1958:
“9:30 a.m. Consultation with Elder Alvin R. Dyer regarding his calling as an Assistant to the Twelve.”
Thurs., 16 Oct., 1958:
“9 to 2:20 p.m. Council meeting in the Salt Lake Temple
At this meeting Elders William J. Critchlow, Jr. and Alvin R. Dyer, who were sustained at the recent semi-annual Conference as Assistants to the Council of the Twelve, having been invited by me personally to attend the meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve for the purpose of being set apart, were brought into the meeting, and I gave them the charge which is usually given to the Brethren prior to their being set apart and ordained.
Brother Critchlow and Brother Dyer then responded to the charge, following which the Brethren of the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve unitedly laid their hands upon the head of Elder William J. Critchlow, Jr., and I was voice in setting him apart as an Assistant to the Twelve.
The Brethren of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve then unitedly laid their hands upon the head of Elder Alvin R. Dyer, and at my request President Stephen L. Richards was voice in setting him apart as an Assistant to the Twelve.
Tues., 24 Mar., 1959:
Pattonsburg Reservoir and Adam-ondi-Ahmen
After this conference the First Presidency returned to the north Board Room and met with Brother alvin R. Dyer.
President McKay read a draft of a proposed letter addressed to Congressman David King, which expressed to him the view of the First Presidency that rather than make a public protest in the matter of the proposed Pattonsburg Reservoir with relation to its inundating the site of Adam-ondi-Ahman, that no action be taken.
Brother Dyer exhibited detailed maps of the area to be effected by the reservoir and indicated where a dam could be constructed without inundating Adam-ondi-Ahman.
He explained that the Federal Engineers at Kansas City had prepared a survey and report upon the project and their findings had been submitted to the Omaho Office and thence sent on to their Washington D.C. office where they are now in the office of the Chief Engineer. This office has shown willingness to consider the interests of the Church in the matter, and invited further suggestions. Brother Dyer reviewed earlier developments and settlements in the area. He stated that at one time there were 300 homes and that the area at one time was known as Cravensville. He recalled portions of earlier reports from the Journals of Joseph Smith and some from diaries of Heber C. Kimball about conditions prevailing in the area.
President Richards commented upon the added historial interest which Brother Dyer’s explanation had brought out.
Brother Dyer explained the Historical Sites Committee (Brother Morris, Brother Isaacson, and Brother Wilford Wood) had asked him to talk with Congressman King and Senator Moss and that Congressman King had conferred with the Engineer’s Department about this project.
President McKay asked Brother Dyer with Brother King to meet quietly with the Engineer’s Office in Washington and without making any issue of the amtter to learn if another site for the dam might be selected which would avoid inundation of this historic area.
*(the design rendered in color)
Thurs., 19 Nov. 1959:
10:00 – 3:45 p.m.
Was engaged in the meeting of the Council of the Twelve and The First Presidency in the Salt Lake Temple.
Decision to re-open European Mission
Today at Council Meeting I reported that during the past few days the First Presidency had been considering the problems in the European Missions, and that I now present to the Council, for the First Presidency, the advisability of reopening the European Mission, and instead of sending the Brethren of the General Authorities to visit the various missions over there, that we appoint one of the General Authorities to preside as President of the European Mission, to work with the various missions just as the European Mission President formerly did. I continued that it is now felt that the headquarters of the European Mission should be on the continent rather than in London as formerly.
I then proposed that Elder Alvin R. Dyer, Assistant to the Twelve, be called to become the President of the European Mission with headquarters in Frankfort a/Main in Germany. I stated here that I felt that we should first establish European Mission Headquarters and the other matters pertaining to getting publications and lesson helps to the German-speaking missions, etc., could be developed later in connection therewith.
The Brethren unanimously approved of the reopening of the European Mission and also of the appointment of Alvin R. Dyer as the President. (see newspaper clipping regarding the reopening of the European Mission on November 25, 1959)”
Tues., 26 Jan. 1960:
“9 to 10 a.m.
Was engaged in the meeting of the First Presidency.
Among other matters discussed were:
(2) Consideration of the manuscript of the Mission Presidents Handbook which has been prepared under the direction of the Missionary Committee. It was decided that the manuscript may now be prepared for publication. Brother Alvin R. Dyer, who is now in Europe presiding over the European Mission did most of the work on this manuscript.”
Thurs., 13 Oct. 1960:
“8 a.m.
President Henry D. Moyle and I met with President and Sister Alvin R. Dyer. Brother Dyer gave a report on the following matters:
1) Labor Missionary Program in the European Missions. He thinks the plan now, after certain misunderstandings have been cleared up, is completely workable.
2) Need for Buildings in France. Stressed the great need for buildings in France where there are now no chapels in the whole Mission.
3) Stake in Amsterdam, Holland. Proposed a stake to include Rotterdam, the Hague, Urecht, and Amsterdam.
4) Stake in Hamburg, Germany. Exhibited a map of the area around Hamburg, and stated that of all places in Germany this area has the finest potential leadership, even better than Manchester. In the sixty-mile area nineteen hundred people are located, and prospects for increased numbers through proselyting are very good.
5) Branches and Missionary Work Behind the Iron Curtain. President Dyer described conditions prevailing in the Communist-controlled part of Germany where careful and very close watch is kept upon the activities of the members of the Church by the police of the Communist country. The local, full-time missionaries are found to be unable to do regular proselyting because of the suspicion and distrust which they are kept under surveillance by the police. We agreed that the full-time missionary work behind the Iron Curtain by local members be discontinued, and that the full-time missionaries be released, and that proselyting be done on a part-time missionary basis. The work of the Church meetings are conducted under serious restraints because of the feelings on the part of the people that they may be spied upon by the Communist authorities through fellow members of the Church.
6) Stake in London. A sketch of the area proposed to be included in the stake in London was exhibited.
7) Exhibited a map of the area proposed to be included in the Birmingham, Nottingham Stake.
8) Prospects in Scotland. I made inquiry regarding prospects in Scotland. President Dyer said that President Brockbank has great interest in increasing proselyting in Scotland, because so many cities have not had missionaries.
9) Organization of another Mission in Great Britain.
10) Organization of Other Missions in Europe — Division of French Mission.
11) Division of German Missions.
12) Relief Society in the European Missions. I asked Sister Dyer to get in touch with Sister Belle S. Spafford and get instructions from her regarding the Relief Societies in Europe.
13) Microfilming of Genealogical Records in European countries.
14) Translation in the European Missions.
15) Book of Mormon in Italian.
16) Scout Movement in European countries.
(see First Presidency’s minutes for details)
I expressed appreciation to President Dyer for the leadership he is giving to the missions and to missionary work in Europe, and informed him and Sister Dyer that they have the full confidence, blessings, and prayers of the Brethren; that the inspiration of the Lord will continue to guide him and his wife in all their appointments, and in their plans relating to the great plans for the European Missions.”
Fri., 25 Sept. 1964:
“Jackson County Temple – Donation to
President McKay received memorandum from Elder Alvin R. Dyer reporting the desire of Sister Karl Hardy Cutler of Preston, Idaho, to donate $2,000 towards the building of the Temple in Jackson County, Missouri.
By letter, President McKay told Elder Dyer that the Church will be pleased to receive this donation and will hold it in trust for the specific purpose for which the contribution is made. (See correspondence following regarding this matter.)
Donation to Temple In Jackson County
Memorandum
To: President David O. McKay and Counselors Date: September 14, 1964
From: Elder Alvin R. Dyer
Re: Proferred bequest of a cash sum to be held in trust for the building of the Temple in Jackson, Missouri
While attending the Franklin Stake Conference at Preston, Idaho, this past weekend, Bishop J. LeGrand Burton of the Preston 1st Ward informed me that Sister Cutler who is 75 years old and has been a school teacher most of her life and a widow of a former member of the Stake Presidency who died sometime ago as a result of an accident, has come into some money as a result of the insurance that she held on her husband. Both she and Brother Cutler had often discussed the future temple to be built in Jackson County, Missouri and realized that they would, no doubt, be dead when this great time of the future should come, but they were sincere and united in their feeling that they wanted to make a contribution in the way of money from their savings and insurance toward this cause. Sister Cutler, therefore, is willing to give to the Church, the sum of $2,000.00 in cash which she and her husband would like to have set aside for use on this sacred project at some future date.
Sister Cutler, whom I met and spoke with concerning this, feels that it is a very sacred and confidential matter and only she, her bishop, and her stake president know of her offer and will ever know of it, so far as she is concerned. Because of the prophetic condition which concerns this temple and of the extreme sacredness of it when the time comes for it to be built, I did not presume to have an answer for Sister Cutler as to whether or not the First Presidency would be agreeable to the acceptance of such a sum for this purpose, and so I gave her no answer in either direction on it, but to keep faith with her I promised that I would send this memorandum to you concerning it. She is a very sincere, wonderful member of the Church.
Friday, September 25, 1964
To Whom It May Concern:
We have in our ward a widow who has sufficient for her needs, and probably a little extra. She is about 80 years old, and has expressed a desire to make a contribution toward the building of the Temple in Jackson County Missouri.
If there be such a fund, or if such a contribution would be accepted, she would like to contribute $2000.00. She is very desirous that the matter be very confidential, and that no one except myself and whoever is authorized to accept it know anything about.
J. LeGrand Burton
Bishop Preston First Ward
Friday, September 25, 1964
September 16, 1964
Elder Alvin R. Dyer
Assistant to the Twelve
Building
Dear Brother Dyer:
In answer to your memorandum of September 14, 1964, regarding a two-thousand-dollar cash contribution by Sister Cutler, a member of the Preston First Ward, Franklin Stake toward the building of the Temple in Jackson County, Missouri, you may advise Bishop J. LeGrand Burton of the Preston First Ward that we shall accept this contribution. It, however, may be years before the Temple in Jackson County is built.
In the meantime, Sister Cutler’s two-thousand dollars will be held in trust for the specific purpose for which the contribution is made.
Sincerely yours,
David O. McKay
(President)”
Wed., 26 May 1965:
11:30 a.m.
Leasing of Church Property at Independence, Missouri
In the meantime, Elder Thorpe B. Isaacson telephoned and asked if he could come over to see me, and I told my daughter, who had answered the telephone, to tell him to come right over.
Brother Isaacson mentioned to me a visit that Elder Alvin R. Dyer, Brother Wilford Kirton, Church Attorney, and he had with a representative of Alex Chalmers of Independence to discuss this proposition.
I suggested that these three men go and find out the details, and report back to me; that if a lease is given it should not be for too long a period. Elder Isaacson will see me when he returns.
After Brother Isaacson’s departure, I took a rest.
Wed., 25 Aug. 1965:
“8:30 a.m.
Held a meeting of the First Presidency. President N. Eldon Tanner present, President Hugh B. Brown enroute to Canada.
10:00 to 10:35 a.m.
United States Jaycee’s Vote to Have Family Home Evening
Met by appointment Brother Alvin R. Dyer, who explained that on August 18, 1965, at Tulsa, Oklahoma, the Executives and special committee under direction of Mr. James Skidmore, National President, the United States Jaycees voted unanimously to make the ‘Family Home Evening’ the program of this national organization for 1966.
Brother Dyer said that this organization had requested that Orson Wright, a local dentist, and High Councilor of the Mount Olympus Stake, who has served as a national officer and also as a chaplain, undertake the responsibility of preparing this manual for use in the homes of 262,000 U.S. Jaycees, and that Dr. Wright had come to Brother Dyer for help from the Church in the preparation of this manual.
Brother Dyer left me a letter explaining the whole matter. He recommended that the material for such a manual be prepared by the writers and coordinators of our Family Home Evening Manual. The adaptation of that manual to fit conditions and beliefs of other churches might well be considered.
After some discussion, and realizing that such a program would be of benefit to all of America, I instructed Brother Dyer to tell Brother Marion G. Romney, a member of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve to be held tomorrow, Thursday, August 26.
Later, it was decided at our meeting that it would be better for the Jaycees to make the modifications in the manual rather than for the Church to determine whether they would accompany our doctrinal phases of it. Brother Richard L. Evans commented that the Jaycees would perhaps accept more than we think they would. Elder Marion G. Romney will see what he can do along this line. (See Brother Dyer’s letter following)
Wed., 16 Feb. 1966:
“8:00 a.m.
Held a meeting of the First Presidency. Presidents Hugh B. Brown, Nathan Eldon Tanner, and Joseph Fielding Smith were present. President Isaacson absent in the hospital.
Pattonsburg Dam, Near Adam-Ondi-Ahman in Missouri – Report by Alvin R. Dyer
Elder Alvin R. Dyer met by appointment with us and discussed the matter of the Pattonsburg Dam project which will be located about one mile north of Adam-Ondi-Ahman in Missouri. He explained that a few years ago when he was presiding over the Central States Mission, he learned of the proposal to construct this dam in a location that would have meant the flooding of Adam-Ondi-Ahman and the Church’s property in that area, that he contacted the engineer in charge and took him over the property and explained to him the Church’s attitude regarding that area and what it would mean to the Church if this area were flooded by the reservoir. In answer to the engineer’s question as to where he thought it should be located, Brother Dyer suggested to him that it should be about a mile north of the location they had in mind. This is the site where they have now decided to place this dam, on the Grand River which empties into the Missouri River. Elder Dyer said that the dam is now in the engineer’s drawings. This re-location has been confirmed as evidenced by preliminary sketches and design sheets of the U.S. Engineer’s Office.
Elder Dyer felt that the matter had now developed to the point where it seemed important that the Church take cognizance of the situation. He, therefore, felt that he should make a report to the First Presidency relative thereto. He presented to the Brethren a brochure with attached documents, maps and details pertaining to the project showing the location of our property, the location of the dam and the extent of the dam. Elder Dyer stated that this Pattonsburg Dam is only one of seven reservoirs that will be erected in that area, and that the over-all cost of the entire complex will approximate 700 million dollars. The main dam will be the Pattonsburg Dam where the power plant will be installed. He explained that this is really the Mississippi River flood control and the determination is to control all the water coming down through Missouri, and the hydro-electric power at the dam will bring about great benefits to the entire area. The Church owns about 38 acres of land at Tower Hill, and the dam will be located in a place where the Church’s land will not be flooded.
Elder Dyer said this would also mean the development of a large recreational area which will attract millions of tourists to that area.
According to the survey that has been made, it is believed that many more tourists will visit that area than all of the other bureaus of information that the Church owns, including the Salt Lake Temple Bureau, Hill Cumorah pageant, World’s Fair, etc. The figures which have been prepared to which Brother Dyer called attention were based on attendance at similar projects. He said it is estimated that potentially there would be from 8 to 10 million people who would visit the area. Elder Dyer thought we needed some additional acreage. He said that our Legal Department has made a study of the land that we own in that area and indicates that there is no question that our title to the land is clear. He mentioned that the location of our property is such that we do not have clearance to the roadway that goes in there. Elder Dyer mentioned also that in the Ozark region, which is just south of this area where two dams were built, 23 million tourists went through that area last year.
Elder Dyer further stated that agents have made preliminary investigations and have informed us that we can obtain some additional property in that area. He did not know what we would have to pay for it, that the property varies in price. He recommended that we obtain parts or all of sections 2 and 3. He indicated that the acreage we own is not sufficient on which to have a bureau of information together with parking space and private facilities for people who need to be taken care of there. He thought we should have at least another hundred acres. He stated that some of the acreage is selling for $400 an acre and some may be even more expensive; also that some is selling for as low as $150 per acre. He reported that they will not begin construction of the dam until 1968, and it is expected it will take two and one-half to three years to complete it. Elder Dyer recommended that a study be made of the project and someone be authorized to investigate the properties and obtain firm bids.
I said that Brother Dyer has a better understanding of the area than anyone else, and asked that he take the responsibility of following up the situation, making a study thereof, an investigation as to land that might be secured and cost thereof, and submit his report and recommendations to the First Presidency.
Elder Dyer asked if he were authorized to contact a real estate firm, and I said the matter was in his hands.
As Brother Dyer left the meeting, I turned to the Brethren and stated that we had made no mistake in choosing Brother Dyer to handle this matter.
Fri., 15 Apr. 1966:
“7:55 a.m.
Adam-ondi-Ahman – Maps of Land Surrounding the Area Shown
I met by appointment Elder Alvin R. Dyer, Assistant to the Twelve, formerly President of the Central States Mission. He was accompanied by his son Brent who carried for his father charts of Adam-ondi-Ahman which were mounted on plywood, and various maps showing the surrounding area.
Brother Dyer told the history of the whole area. (See minutes following giving a detailed account of what he showed me and explained to me.)
After Brother Dyer had finished his report to me, I said the whole thing is a miracle; first, the relocation of the dam-site, preserving this sacred area from inundation, and secondly, the feeling and attitude of the United States Engineers at Kansas City and Omaha in cooperating with the Church, and also the farmers who are willing to part with their farm land for they seem to sense the importance of this area.
I asked Brother Dyer how the people of the area felt about Adam-ondi-Ahman, and Brother Dyer said that one of the largest land owners in the area had named his place the ‘Old Di-ahman Farm,’ and that the Missouri Historical Society has erected a large and substantial marker of steel and bronze with the wording ‘Adam’s Consecrated Land’, and that the marker is highly respected. One resident, Clay Barlow, has expressed the wish to live until Adam returns.
I told Brother Dyer that we should proceed at once to obtain needed property, and that I hold him responsible to see that this is done, and that he is to look after the project as a whole, keeping me advised of developments. (See diary of June 1 and 2nd, for trip to Adam-ondi-Ahman.)
Tues., 24 May 1966:
“10:30 a.m.
Adam Ondi-Ahman – Purchase of Property — Visit of President McKay to
Alvin R. Dyer came in by appointment and presented two options to purchase real estate from Frederick W. and Joyce J. Dustman at Adam Ondi-Ahman.
Brother Dyer said that this property is important to the Church as it contains areas of vital Church history, and that it is needed for the establishing of a bureau with facilities to engage the millions of tourists who will be visiting this area annually now that the Pattonsburg and other dams are to be erected creating a lake of considerable size. He said that wealthy men are already purchasing property for the establishing of Hotels and resorts in this area. He said that it is his recommendation that the Church exercise these options at once; that they concern approximately 140 acres, more or less, at a cost of $234 per acre, or $60,000. These options expire June 1 and 2nd, 1966.
Brother Dyer then said that it would be a good thing if I could go to this area and inspect the property and see for myself the necessity of acquiring the property in question in order to protect the property we already own at Adam-Ondi-Ahman. He said that these wealthy men are willing to pay much more to obtain the land than it has been offered to us.
I told Brother Dyer that since I had never visited Missouri and these historic sites, I should like to go and see these places. I said that I think I shall take President Joseph Fielding Smith with me; that we could leave Wednesday, June 1, and return the next morning in time for Council Meeting.
I then called President Smith and asked him to come right over to the apartment. When he arrived, I told him that I should like him to accompany Brother Alvin R. Dyer and me to make a plane trip to Missouri and look over the land at Adam Ondi-Ahman, and at the same time visit the other Church historic places there. President Smith said that he would be delighted and pleased to accompany me.
I then told Brother Dyer to make the plane reservations for June 1, at 10:00 a.m.
Tuesday, May 24, 1966
May 24, 1966
President David O. McKay
Building
Re: Purchase of Property at Adam-ondi-Ahman
Dear President:
Attached to this letter will be found two options to purchase real estate from Frederick W. and Joyce J. Dustman at Adam-ondi-Ahman.
This property is important for the purposes of the Church at this place; containing areas of vital Church history. It is needed for the establishing of a bureau with facilities to engage the millions of tourists who will visit this area annually. The Pattonsburg and other dams are to be erected as a flood control and water conservation project, and will principally concern the Grand River.
The Omnibus Rivers and Harbors Bill (S-2300) which authorized the project, became Public Law 89-298 on October 27, 1965.
It is my recommendation, acting upon your request, that the Church excercize these options at once. They concern approximately 140 acres, more or less at a cost of $234.00 per acre, or sixty thousand dollars.
It is to be noted that the options expire June 1st and 2nd, 1966, respectively, and therefore should be acted upon.
Sincerely yours brother,
Alvin R. Dyer
Enclosures
Tuesday, May 13, 1966
MEMORANDUM
To: President David O. McKay Date: May 24, 1966
From: Alvin R. Dyer
Re: Option No. 3 to purchase Property at Adam-ondi-Ahman
This option, which is being mailed to us, is for an additional 58 acres of land to the north of options 1 and 2, referred to in a letter sent to you today. This land will also be needed to complete the projection of facilities for the future bureau at Adam-ondi-Ahman.
According to our understanding, this section of land contains the place where the altar of Adam was found and is near the temple site. It belongs to land promoters and developers from St. Joseph, Missouri, who have purchased two thousand or more acres, extending from the north and joining optioned Church property; to beyond Jameson and will border the shores of the lake to be created by the Pattonsburg Dam. They intend a mammoth development there of motels, boat harbors, swimming, fishing, etc., that will serve the millions who will visit this place. The owners, Robert Madget and Walter Andrews, of St. Joseph, Missouri, are wealthy investors and seem reluctant to dispose of any of their property; however, they have now given us an option on some 58 acres which we will need to request a purchase on later, as the option has not been received, although it is being mailed and the price will need final determination.”
Thurs., 26 May 1966:
10:30 a.m.
Outline for Priesthood Home Teaching, and Plans for Visit to Adam-ondi-Ahman
Brother Alvin R. Dyer came in and presented an outline of a course of study he is preparing for the Priesthood Home Teaching Committee, which points out the revelations concerning the governing of the Church; viz., the Presiding High Priest of the Priesthood of the Church, or President of the Church, or, as the revelation says, the Standing High Priest; 2) the President of the Stake; 3) the Bishop of the Ward; 4) the father in the home. He explained that the revelation points out that this Church is self-governing, and that there is no need for the President of the Church to be ‘high pressured’ into making any decision; that he should be left to seek for inspiration on any principle or subject affecting the Church and have time to study the matter out. It is he and he alone who can make decisions affecting the government of the Church. He may have as many counselors and assistants as he deems necessary.
Brother Dyer then read from the Doctrine and Covenants several passages to prove what he had told me.
We then talked about our contemplated trip to Missouri next Wednesday. I said that I am still planning to go, and left the arrangements in the hands of Brother Dyer.”
Tues., 31 May 1966:
“10:30 a.m.
Trip to Adam-Ondi-Ahman
Brother Alvin R. Dyer came in to confirm appointment for President Joseph Fielding Smith, him, and me to go to Kansas City and Independence, Missouri to visit Adam-Ondi-Ahman property. Brother Dyer said he will now call the Travel Bureau and confirm the plane reservations.
It was decided that Robert McKay, who is on the General Church Information Committee, would accompany, but later this was changed, and it was decided that Lawrence McKay would go in his stead.
After Brother Dyer left, my secretary, Clare, who accompanied him, took up some office matters with me. She told me of the difficulty she is having in getting appointments to bring important matters to me; that the housekeeper makes it very difficult. Clare said that she comes over only when she has something that needs my personal attention. I told Clare that she is to come over any time; that she needs no appointment, to just come over when she has anything to take up with me.
Wed., 1 June 1966:
“Historic Trip To Missouri To Visit Adam-ondi-Ahman And Other Church Historic
Places In Missouri
7:15 a.m.
President Joseph Fielding Smith and Elder Alvin R. Dyer, Assistant to the Twelve, according to previous arrangements, met me at the apartment in the Hotel Utah. I was ready and waiting for them when they arrived. My son, Lawrence, who accompanied us on the trip, was there also. We left the Hotel by way of the back entrance, and were driven to the Airport by Brother Darcey U. Wright.
8:00 a.m.
At the Airport we were met by Brother Franklin J. Murdock who had made all the arrangements with the airline officials for our reservations. Our car was driven right to the plane and we were taken aboard for Kansas City, Missouri at 8:00 a.m. (A complete journal of this historic trip by Brother Alvin R. Dyer follows.) (See also following copy of letter received from President Keysor of Central States Mission.)
Wednesday and Thursday, June 1 and 2, 1966
Journal of Visit to Historic Places in Missouri
June 8, 1966
President David O. McKay
Building
Re: Recent Visit to Adam-ondi-Ahman
Dear President McKay:
Attached you will find a journal record of your recent visit to Adam-ondi-Ahman and other historic places in Missouri. This was prepared from notes which I took during our visit there.
This is an experience that I shall never forget and I thought that perhaps you would like to read the account of our visit and the things that we talked about while we were there.
With affectionate regards,
Alvin R. Dyer
Wednesday and Thursday, June 1 and 2, 1966
Journal Record of the Visit of President David O. McKay to Adam-ondi-Ahman
Pertinent Facts of the Visit
With President McKay were the following:
President Joseph Fielding Smith of the Council of the Twelve
Elder Alvin R. Dyer, Assistant to the Twelve
David Lawrence McKay, the son of the President
Historic Places Visited
Independence, Missouri
Liberty, Missouri
Far West, Missouri
Adam-ondi-Ahman, Missouri
Those who Assisted in the Arrangements
and Comforts of the Tour
Clare Middlemiss, personal secretary of President McKay whose real interest and suggestions helped in many ways.
Franklin J. Murdock for plane and hotel reservations, and for assistance at interim plane stops and changes.
Darcey Wright who drove the President’s car to and from the Salt Lake airport.
Dick Penner, Customer Service U.A.L. at Denver, Colorado.
George H. Stuart, Customer Service, U.A.L., at Kansas City, Missouri.
Truman Laudie, member of Kansas City Stake High Council, who provided his Cadillac, and as driver, drove the party to and from the historic places in Missouri referred to.
Others Who Accompanied the Laudie Car
with the President and his Party
Second Car:
The Kansas City Stake Presidency
Jewel Pope, President
Wayne Reeve, First Counselor
Christian Sanders, Second Counselor
James Pope, the stake president’s father
Third Car:
President and Sister Robert Keysor of the Central States Mission
Fourth Car:
Mr. and Mrs. Larry Nicholsen, the official photographers
Dates of the Historic Tour
June 1st and 2nd, 1966
Place of Lodging, Evening of June 1, 1966
Hotel Muelbach, Kansas City, Missouri
Distance traveled by automobile from Kansas City Airport to the four historic places and return to Kansas City, Missouri, was 200 miles.
History of the Visit
On the morning of May 24, 1966, I accompanied Clare Middlemiss, the personal secretary of President David O. McKay, to his apartment in the Hotel Utah, where a letter, addressed to the President was read to him concerning certain options that had been obtained from Frederick W. and Joyce J. Dustman, to purchase a total of approximately 140 acres of historic land at Adam-ondi-Ahman. (Note: Letter and options made a part of this journal record.)
President McKay thoughtfully announced upon this occasion that he wanted to go to Adam-ondi-Ahman, and would arrangements be made for such a trip. It was determined that President Joseph Fielding Smith of the Council of the Twelve would be asked to go. He was called out of the Committee on Expenditures meeting then in session, and upon arrival at the President’s apartment signified his willingness to accompany the President, and expressed delight that President McKay had decided to visit the historic places in Missouri, having never been there before.
The dates of the visit agreeable to President McKay were chosen and arrangements were made. It was thought at first that Robert McKay would accompany the party, but it was later determined that Lawrence would go.
The purchase of needed property at Adam-ondi-Ahman, and the fact that a great deal of Church funds would no doubt eventually be expended at this place for a bureau and other facilities, influenced the President to want to set feet on the ground in this area, and see for himself and get the feeling for decisions to be reached.
President McKay and his party left Salt Lake City on a U.A.L. jet flight at 8:55 a.m. Wednesday, June 1st, 1966, and arrived at Kansas City, Missouri, at 1:10 p.m., having made an intermediate stop, and a change of plane, (U.A.L.) at Denver, Colorado.
Conveniences for President McKay
The President was placed in a wheel chair and lifted by hoist to the platform of the portable stairs at Salt Lake City and was taken from the plane at Denver the same way. However, the plane from Denver was entered by the jetway on the wheel chair. The first class seats on all planes were blocked out and President McKay and party were permitted entrance considerably in advance of the other passengers.
At Kansas City the wheel chair was taken down the jet-way stairs to ground level by U.A.L. Customer Service attendants.
President McKay’s car at Salt Lake City went direct to the plane on the runway. At Kansas City, the terminus, Truman Laudie’s car was just outside of the landing.
Welcoming at Kansas City, Missouri
The party was met at Kansas City by the Presidency of the Kansas City Stake and President and Sister Keysor of the Central States Mission. Perhaps a hundred and fifty members had heard of the coming of the President, hovering about, just to get a glimpse of the Prophet, some came forward to be nearby but mostly all stayed at a distance so as not to tire the President with personal greetings.
The party, soon after arrival, were in the Laudie car; the President sitting in the front seat by the driver, and President Smith, Elder Dyer, and Lawrence McKay in the rear seat.
It was a beautiful day though slightly overcast. It was not too hot and the humidity was not extreme, nevertheless the air-conditioning in the car was appreciated.
At Independence, Missouri
Leaving the airport the party drove directly to Independence, Missouri, a distance of 12 or 13 miles.
Elder Dyer, for the most part commented to President McKay, in particular, on the historic significance of the various places visited.
In Independence, the hospital and old folks home of the R.L.D.S. Church were passed and pointed out, as also the School of the Restoration Building and the ‘Old Stone Church.’
The party stopped in front of the small frame Church of Christ Chapel (Hedreckite), on River Blvd., where in plain view to the left, about one half block away, stood the Auditorium of the R.L.D.S. Across the street to the east of the auditorium is the twenty-three plus acres of temple land which belongs to our Church.
While in front of the Hedreckite Church, Elder Dyer pointed out that this particular spot was the high point of the some 63 acres of the original ‘inheritance’ or ‘Temple Lane’ property and where the Prophet Joseph Smith dedicated a temple site, which is destined to become the Temple of the New Jerusalem. The Prophet’s journal was cited:
‘On the third day of August, (1831), I proceeded
to dedicate the spot for the temple, a little west
of Independence, and there were also present,
Sydney Rigdon, Edward Partridge, William W.
Phelps, Oliver Cowdery, Martin Harris and
Joseph Coe.’ (DHC Vol. 1, p. 199)
President McKay evidenced real interest in what was said and seemed very pleased to be present, there on this consecrated land, and in viewing the high point where the Prophet Joseph had stood. He expressed his pleasure in the fact that the Church owned some of this inheritance land, and asked how we had obtained it. This was explained to him.
The party drove around the R.L.D.S. Auditorium, and then passed by our Church property on Pacific Street, which together with some acreage to the south, totaling approximately six acres, is now leased to Allis-Chalmers, who have a huge operation there, manufacturing farm equipment. The party, turned north on Pleasant Street, passing the old Swope mansion property now used by the R.L.D.S. as a playground and youth center. At Walnut and Pleasant the party turned west, passing the Independence Ward Chapel, Central States Mission office, and the new mission president’s residence. From here the party drove by the home of former President Harry Truman, and thence on Highway 24, passed the Truman Memorial Library, a commanding structure well set on rolling lawns and appropriate landscaping. As we left the library, President McKay remarked that ‘he was not a very good man.”
At Liberty, Missouri
Crossing over the Missouri River the party arrived shortly thereafter at Liberty, Missouri. Driving through the town they passed the city square where stands the courthouse of Clay County. Elder Dyer noted that on June 16, 1834, a mass meeting was called on this square where consideration was given to the settling of the matter of ‘Jackson lands’, which the Saints had been dispossessed of. About one thousand people attended the meeting. It was here that the ‘Buy or Sell’, proposition was made, but there was no just treatment of the Saints. Many rabble rousers from Jackson County kept the meeting aflame with such statements as, ‘The Mormons have lived long enough in Clay County; and they must either clear out or be cleared out.’ This statement was made by a Baptist minister. But Mr. Turnham, the Chairman of the meeting, made this statement:
‘Let us be republicans, let us honor our country, and not disgrace
it like Jackson County. For God’s sake don’t disfranchise or drive
away the Mormons. They are better citizens than many of the older
inhabitants.’
General Doniphan, who attended the meeting and observing the mounting injustices heaped upon the Mormons and knowing of their calibre, declared:
‘That’s a fact, and as the Mormons have armed themselves,
if they don’t fight, they are cowards.’ (Refiner’s Fire, pp. 42-43)
Reaching the Liberty Jail Bureau, the party got out of the car. President McKay with President Smith near his side, walked up the steps and into the Bureau at Liberty Jail assisted by Elder Dyer and Lawrence McKay. A number of missionaries (4) were in the reception room to greet the President. Elder Dyer explained how the bureau was handled with missionaries first delivering a lecture and answering questions before proceeding to the jail rotunda. In the rotunda which encloses the restored Liberty Jail, the historic events that led to the Prophet Joseph and his brother Hyrum, and four others being placed in this crude and barren enclosure 14 feet square with a dungeon and upper room for approximately four months in the winter of 1838-39 without just cause. Here in the depths of sorrow and abject persecution, the prophet sought God the Father for guidance and assurance. He was answered by the reassuring influence and voice of God the Father who, some 18 years before had spoken to him in the Sacred Grove near Palmyra, New York, when he introduced His Beloved Son to the Prophet.
The inspiration of this deep religious experience was meditated upon as President Chris Sanders of the Kansas City Stake Presidency read the inscriptions carved on granite pylons extending 20 feet high surrounding the jail and are excerpts from the revelations given unto the Prophet at this place. The placement of these inscriptions, carved in granite, were approved by President McKay when the planning of the bureau was underway and are given here.
THE SOUL CRY OF THE PROPHET JOSEPH SMITH UNTO
GOD WITHIN THESE PRISON WALLS AT A TIME OF TROUBLE
AND HARDSHIP
‘O God, where art thou? And where is the pavilion that covereth thy
hiding place?
‘How long shall thy hand be stayed, and thine eye, yea thy pure eye,
behold from the eternal heavens the wrongs of thy people and of thy
servants, and thine ear be penetrated with their cries?’
D & C 121:1,2
AN ANSWER FROM GOD
‘My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions
shall be but a small moment; And then, if thou endure it well, God shall
exalt thee on high; thou shalt triumph over all thy foes. Thy friends do
stand by thee, and they shall hail thee again with warm hearts and
friendly hands.’
D & C 121:7-9
THE POWER OF FAITH AND VIRTUE
‘Let thy bowels also be full of charity towards all men,
and to the household of faith, and let virtue garnish
thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence
wax strong in the presence of God; and the doctrine
of the priesthood shall distil upon thy soul as the dews from
heaven.
‘Thy Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion, and
thy scepter an unchanging scepter of righteousness and
truth; and thy dominion shall be an everlasting dominion,.
and without compulsory means it shall flow unto thee
forever and ever.’
D & C 121: 45-46
RIGHTS OF THE PRIESTHOOD
CONNECTED WITH THE POWERS OF HEAVEN
‘Behold, there are many called, but few are chosen. And why
are they not chosen?
‘Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of this
world, and aspire to the honors of men, that they do not
learn this one lesson–
‘That the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected
with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven
cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles
of righteousness.’
D & C 121: 34-36
THE PRINCIPLES OF RIGHTEOUS DOMINION
‘No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue
of the priesthood, only by persuasion, by long-suffering, by
gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned;
‘By kindness, and pure knowledge, which shall greatly
enlarge the soul without hypocrisy, and without guile;
Reproving betimes with sharpness, when moved upon
by the Holy Ghost and then showing forth afterwards an
increase of love toward him whom thou hast reproved,
lest he esteem thee to be his enemy;
‘That he may know that thy faithfulness is stronger than
the cords of death.’
D & C 121: 41-44
THE PRINCIPLES OF UNRIGHTEOUS DOMINION
‘That they may be conferred upon us, it is true, but when we
undertake to cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain
ambition, or to exercise control or dominion or compulsion
upon the souls of the children of men, in any degree of unrighteous-
ness, behold, the heavens withdraw themselves; the spirit of the
Lord is grieved; and when it is withdrawn, amen to the priesthood
or the authority of that man.’
D & C 121:37
A DECLARATION OF JOSEPH SMITH, THE
PROPHET, ON THE CONSTITUTION OF THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
‘Here is a principle also, which we are bound to be exercised with,
that is, in common with all men, such as governments, and laws,
and regulations in the civil concerns of life. This principle guarantees
to all parties, sects, and denominations, and classes of religion,
equal, coherent, and indefeasible rights; they are things that pertain to
this life; therefore all are alike interested; they make our responsibilities
one toward another in matters of corruptible things, while the former
principles do not destroy the latter, but bind us stronger and make our
responsibilities not only one to another, but unto God also …Hence we
say, that the Constitution of the United States is a glorious standard; it
is founded in the wisdom of God. It is a heavenly banner; it is to all
those who are privileged with the sweets of its liberty, like the cooling
shades and refreshing waters of a great rock in the thirsty and weary land.
It is like a great tree under whose branches men from every clime can be
shielded from the burning rays of the Sun.’
DHC Vol. III, p. 232
President Sanders voice was clear, distinct, and compelling. The contemplation
of these revelations clearly affected the President as his eyes became moist with tears. ‘The great revelation from God given unto man for man’, said President McKay.
President Joseph Fielding Smith told of his having dedicated this building including the jail, and so far as he knew the only time a jail was ever dedicated. He also referred to the fact that his father, Joseph F. Smith who became President of the Church, born near Far West, Missouri, was brought to the jail where his grandfather Hyrum Smith saw him for the first time.
Elder Dyer told of the room to be added on the north of the jail and of other changes inside with the addition of a statue of Joseph Smith that will more effectively tell the message of the Church at that place.
From this hallowed place the entourage went directly to Adam-ondi-Ahman. The rolling hills, the many trees, hedges and completely green country side was beautiful to behold. The Missouri River which flows from the vast northwest on its relentless flow to the Mississippi River was crossed several times during the day with the reminder, as exclaimed by the Prophet Joseph Smith, ‘that well might man put forth his puny arm to stop the flow of the mighty Missouri than to stop God from pouring down blessings upon the heads of the Latter-day Saints.’ (A statement made in Liberty Prison)
A part of the journey northward was accomplished on the new interstate freeway No. 35 which eventually will cross over the Pattonsburg Reservoir at Adam-ondi-Ahman and will have convenient exists at the north and south of Adam-ondi-Ahman.
The valleys and hills of Adam-ondi-Ahman on this beautiful, but overcast day, late spring day, June 1, 1966, was never more beautiful, the early growth of the farmers crops, mostly corn was in evidence and the trees and shrubs on uncleared land were dense and seemingly impenetrable. The party passed the farm homes of Henry and Joyce Dustman, (Old Di-Ahman Farms) of Elmore and Estes – having driven through the Daviess County Seat of Gallatin, a place significant in Church history.
At Adam-ondi Ahman
Leaving Gallatin, we traveled north on Highway 13 to the highway marker pointing the direction to Adam-ondi-Ahman, a turn-off I had taken many times before. Crossing over the railroad tracks we were on the gravel road leading west. (This is the road that the Church assisted with the cost of grading and graveling during the time that President Dyer presided over the Central States Mission). Passing Dustman’s Di-Ahman Farms we crossed over a creekbed bridge and ascended the hill on a narrow road to Tower Hill. The party stopped here and President McKay, President Smith, and the rest of us got out of the cars and stood close to the spot of the ruins of the old Nephite and Adamic Altar of prayer.
Elder Dyer narrated some of the events of historic significance that transpired at this place which concerned the many visits of the Prophet Joseph Smith and of his designating the altars and how they were used by the ancients.
Elder Dyer identified the two pieces of property totaling 140 acres that options to buy had been obtained from Dustman by the Church, the one piece contained the bluff area of Spring Hill where once many of the homes at Adam-ondi-Ahman were erected including also the ruins of the Storehouse located in the center block in this old city, together with the temple site and the altar site where sacrifice was officered by Adam.
President McKay returned to sit in the car where a U.S. Engineers’ map was shown to him which identified there on the spot the location of the Pattonsburg Dam and the conservation pool or reservoir it would create.
Elder Dyer pointed to the site to the east of Tower Hill where the dam was originally planned for erected in relation to the changed location about one mile up the Grand River to the west and north to show the distance actually effected in the relocation of the dam.
To get a better feel of the area the car with President McKay and President Smith was driven down the narrow cobble strewn road from Tower Hill, and passing the remains of Lyman Wight’s home, into the large valley of Adam-ondi-Ahman. The car was stopped at the base of the bluff where the north end of the dam axis will anchor. It was clearly seen at this point how the historic area of Spring Hill of Adam-ondi-Ahman had been preserved from inundation by the relocating of the damsite.
The ‘high point’ of Spring Hill was pointed out to the President. It is upon this high part of the bluff where the temple site was dedicated and near to this is the site of the Altar of Adam.
President McKay remarked that all this was most important land, and a very sacred place.
At Far West, Missouri
The day was drawing on toward early evening as we left Tower Hill at Adam-ondi-Ahman. Driving through Gallatin, the county seat, significant events in Church history there was called to mind. It was here that the right of the ‘Mormons’ to vote was contested. The mob bully ‘Dick Welding’, indicated the bitterness against the Saints by saying: ‘The Mormons were not allowed to vote in Clay County no more than the negroes.’ While none were killed there, this incident led to much bitterness and the eventual death of many saints at Adam-ondi-Ahman.
Driving south on Highway 13, we soon reached Hamilton, where J.C. Penny owned and operated one of his first stores. The high school there is named after him, and a J.C. Penny store continues in the same location. Leaving Hamilton we drove west on Highway 36 to the country road ‘D’ and thence south to the Far West Temple site. At the site our car turned east so that the temple excavation baring the four corner stones was to our immediate right. The President stayed in the car but let the window down so that some historical happenings there could be related to him. Four of the brethren stood one each on the four cornerstones of the temple excavation. This enabled President McKay to judge the outline of the temple.
Concerning this sacred place, the Lord revealed unto Joseph Smith on April 26, 1838, the following:
‘Let the city, Far West, be a holy and consecrated land
unto me; and it shall be called most holy, for the ground
upon which thou standest is holy.’
D & C 115:7
Continuing the Lord proclaimed:
‘Therefore, I command you to build a house unto me, for
the gathering together of my saints that they may worship me.’
D & C 115:8
The cornerstones were laid on July 4, 1838, with the southeast stone representing the First Presidency, rolled into place on April 26, 1839, when the apostles met there prior to their departure for the isles of the sea to preach the Gospel. (See the Refiner’s Fire, pp. 86-87)
Elder Dyer related to President McKay that the two counties, Caldwell, of which Far West was the center of gathering for the saints, and Daviess, of which Adam-ondi-Ahman was the center, had been created largely for the ‘Mormon settles’ through the efforts of the Honorable Alexander W. Doniphan of the Missouri legislature. These two counties were named after two army associates of his father Joseph Doniphan, a soldier of the revolution. These were Captain Mathew Caldwell and Colonel Joseph H. Daviess. This caused the Saints to move out of Clay County and together with these coming from Kirtland and other places the saints moved into Far West and Adam-ondi-Ahman.
Caldwell County in 1836 was a wilderness. By the spring of 1838, it had a population of 5000, 4900 of whom were Mormons. The city of Far West at one time had one hundred and fifty houses, four dry goods stores, three family groceries, half a dozen blacksmith shops, a printing establishment and two hotels. A large and comfortable school served as a church and courthouse.
Daviess County, like Caldwell, was new land, but the Saints poured into the area of Adam-ondi-Ahman hoping to be left alone, and to live in peace. A company of 200 wagons from Canada settled there and also a company of 500 from Kirtland. At one time log dwellings were erected at the rate of two and three a day.
As President McKay gazed out at the temple site with thoughtful contemplation, President Smith got out of the car and walked the short distance to the temple site. Elder Dyer told of the persecution of the saints at that time which reached a climax at Far West. To the right of the car once the city square, is where the exterminating order of Governor Boggs was read. It having been previously issued from Militia Headquarters in Jefferson City. It conveyed the authority that, ‘The Mormons must be treated as enemies and must be exterminated, or driven from the state if necessary for the public peace.’
The speech made by General John B. Clark on the city square was referred to. This transpired in early days not more than 25 feet from where the President was sitting in Truman Laudie’s car. With a command of 2100, General Clark, who commanded the expedition against the Mormons, on the 5th day of November, 1838, placed 56 prominent leaders of the Church under arrest. His speech indicates the bitter persecution against the Saints telling of the requirements of their subjection.
‘The first requires that your leading men be given up to be
tried according to law; this you have already complied with.
‘The second is, that you deliver up your arms; this has
been attended to.
‘The third stipulation is, that you sign over your properties
to defray the expenses of the war; this you have also done.
‘Another article yet remains for you to comply with, that is
that you leave the state forthwith; and whatever may be your
feelings concerning this, or thatever your innocence, it is nothing
to me; General Lucas, who is equal in authority with me, has made
this treaty here — I am therefore determined to see it fulfilled. The
character of this state has suffered almost beyond redemption,
from the character, conduct and influence that you have exerted,
and we deem it an act of justice to restore her character to its former
standing among the states, to every proper means.
‘The orders of the governor to me were, that you should be
exterminated, and not allowed to remain in the state, and had
your leaders not have been given up, and the terms of the treaty
complied with, before this, you and your families would have been
destroyed and your houses in ashes.
‘There is a discretionary power vested in my hands which
I shall exercise in your favor for a season; for this lenity
you are indebted to my clemency. I do not say that you
shall go now, but you must not think of staying here another
season, or of putting in crops, for the moment you do this
the citizens will be upon you. If I am called here again, in
case of a non-compliance of a treaty made, do not think that
I shall act any more as I have done — you need not expect
mercy, but extermination, for I am determined the governor’s
order shall be executed. As for your leaders, do not once think–
do not imagine for a moment — do not let it enter your mind that
they will be delivered, or that you will see their faces again, for
their fate is fixed — their die is cast — their doom is sealed.
‘I am sorry, gentlemen, to see so great a number of apparently
intelligent men found in the situation that you are; and oh! that I
could invoke the Great Spirit, the unknown God, to rest upon you,
and make you sufficiently intelligent to break that chain of superstition
and liberate you from those fetters of fanaticism with which you are
bound — that you no longer worship a man.
‘I would advise you to scatter abroad, and never again organize
yourselves with bishops, presidents, etc., lest you excite the
jealousies of the people, and subject yourselves to the same
calamities that have come upon you.
‘You have always been the aggressors — you have brought upon
yourselves these difficulties by being disaffected and not being
subject to rule — and my advise is, that you become as other
citizens, lest by a recurrence of these events you bring upon
yourselves irretrievable ruin.’
Brigham Young, who was present when the speech was made, says that in addition to the above General Clark said that Mormons must not be seen as many as five together: ‘If you are,’ said he, ‘the citizens will be upon you and destroy you…’ There is no alternative for them but to flee; that they need not expect any redress, for there was none for them. The Saints were also compelled to sign away their property by executing a deed of trust at the point of the bayonet which they did, amid the frantic joy of the mob.
Elder Dyer referred to President McKay many other events of historical significance at Far West, including the heroism of General Doniphan, who refused to carry out a military order that Joseph Smith and his companions then in the custody of General Lucas. At midnight on November 1, 1838, he issued this order to Brigadier General Doniphan:
‘Sir, you will take Joseph Smith and the other prisoners into the public
square at Far West and shoot them at 9 o’clock tomorrow morning.’
Samuel D. Lucas
Major General – Commanding
General Doniphan’s heroic action forestalled the death of the Prophet for nearly six years. His reply was:
‘It is cold blooded murder. I will not obey your order. My brigade shall
march for Liberty tomorrow morning at 8 o’clock; and if you execute these
men, I will hold you responsible before an earthly tribunal, so help me God.’
(See Refiner’s Fire, pp. 78-81)
The great courage and faith of Heber C. Kimball at this time near the very spot where the President’s car stood, was cited:
‘William E. McLellin wanted to know where Heber C. Kimball was.
Someone pointed me out to him as I was sitting on the ground. He
came up to me and said: ‘Brother Heber, what do you think of the
fallen prophet now? Has he not led you blindfolded long enough? Look
and see yourself poor, your family stripped and robbed, and your brethren
in the same fix; are you satisfied with Joseph?’ I replied, ‘Yes, I am more
satisfied with him a hundred-fold than ever I was before, for I see you in the
very position that he foretold you would be in; a Judas to betray your
brethren, if you did not forsake your adultery, fornication, lying and
abominations. Where are you? What are you about? You and Hinkle,
and scores of others; have you not betrayed Joseph and the brethren into
the hands of the mobs, as Judas did Jesus? Yes, verily you have; I tell
you Mormonism is true, and Joseph is a true prophet of the living God;
and you with all others that turn there from will be damned and go to hell
and Judas will rule over you.’
Another event of historical and spiritual significance concerned the southeast corner stone of the temple, which President McKay could see not more than 50 feet away, and the fulfillment of a prophecy.
Perhaps no prophecy uttered by the Prophet Joseph Smith, nor revelation given, brought more widespread comment and interest among the enemies of the Church, than did the revelation given on July 8, 1838. It came in answer to a supplication, to reveal the will of the Lord concerning the Twelve. In it the Prophet was instructed to organize the Twelve replacing such who had fallen with others, and then they were instructed as follows:
‘And next spring let them depart to go over the great waters, and there
promulgate my gospel, the fulness thereof, and bear record of my name.
‘Let them take leave of my saints in the city of Far West, on the twenty-
sixth day of April, on the building spot of my house, said the Lord.’
With the invoking of the Exterminating Order and the general exodus of the Saints in process as the closing months of that eventful year approached, the enemies of the Church who knew of the prophetic revelation, began to chide and taunt the members and leaders of the Church, ‘This is one of old Joe Smith’s revelations that won’t be fulfilled’ could be heard over and over again. Thus the truth of a revelation was questioned.
From the Prophet’s own record, we catch something of the feelings of the oppressors as to this particular prophecy.
‘April 5, 1839
Eight men — Captain Bogart, who was the country Judge, Dr. Laffity, John
Whitmer and five others — came into the committee’s room, (i.e., the room
or office for the committee on removal) and presented to Theodore Turley
the paper containing the revelation of July 8, 1838, to Joseph Smith directing
the Twelve to take their leave of the Saints in Far West on the building site
of the Lord’s House on the 26th of April 1839, to go to the isles of the sea,
and then asked him to read it. Turley said, ‘Gentlemen I am well acquainted
with it.’ They said, ‘Then you, as a rational man, will give up Joseph Smith’s
being a prophet and an inspired man? He and the Twelve are now scattered
all over creation; let them come here if they dare; if they do, they will be
murdered. As the revelation cannot be fulfilled, you will not give up your faith.’
Turley jumped up and said, ‘In the name of God that revelation will be
fulfilled.’ They laughed him to scorn. John Whitmer hung his head. They
said, ‘If they (the twelve) come, they will get murdered; they dare not
come to take their leave here; that is like all the rest of Joe Smith’s d–n
prophecies.’
PROPHECY FULFILLED
The word of the Lord has been spoken to the Twelve, as to a conference that was to be held on the building spot of his house at Far West, on the 26th of April, 1839, whence they were to leave to go over the great waters to proclaim the gospel.
‘Let them take leave of my saints in the city of Far West, on the twenty-
sixth day of April next, on the building spot of my house, saith the Lord.’
Because the Saints had been driven from Missouri and the apostles scattered, the apostates and mobbers rejoiced at what they thought would be the failure of one of the revelations given to Joseph Smith. From the Historical Record we read the following concerning this incident:
‘But this was not the feeling of President Young and those of
the Twelve Apostles who were with him. He asked them
individually what their feelings were on the subject. Their
desires were, they said, to fulfil the revelation. He said the Lord
had spoken, and it was their duty to obey, and leave the event in His
hands, and He would protect them. Consequently, Brigham Young,
Orson Pratt, John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, George Albert Smith,
and Alpheus Cutler left Quincy, for Far West to fulfill the revelation.
They met John E. Page, who was an apostle at that time, on the road
and told him they wanted him to go to Far West with them, which he did.
‘Just before reaching Far West they met three brethren who had been
left at that place as a committee to attend to the removal of the poor
Saints, but had been driven from the town. They informed the Apostles
that the mob had come into Far West and tantalized them on the subject
of the revelation, saying that it was one of Joseph Smith’s revelations which
could not be fulfilled, as the Twelve apostles were scattered to the four winds;
and they threatened them severely if they were found in Far West the next
day. They, however, turned around and accompanied the Apostles and the
other brethren to the house of Father Timothy Clark, near Far West.
‘Early on the morning of the 26th of April — the day mentioned in the
revelation — a conference was held, 31 persons were cut off from the
Church, and the Apostles and Saints proceeded to the building spot of the
Lord’s House. Elder Cutler, the master workman of the house, then
recommended laying the foundation, agreeable to revelation, by rolling up
a large stone near the southeast corner. The following of the Twelve were
present: Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, John E. Page and
John Taylor, who proceeded to ordain Wilford Woodruff and George A.
Smith, Apostles to fill the places of those who had fallen. Darwin Chase and Norman Shearer, who had just been liberated from Richmond prison, and
arriving the evening previous, were each ordained to the office of Seventy.
‘The Twelve then offered up vocal prayer in the following order: Brigham
Young, Heber C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, John E. Page, John Taylor, Wilford
Woodruff and George A. Smith. They sang, ‘Adam-ondi-Ahman’; after which
they took their leave of eighteen Saints, agreeable to the revelation. The
conference was adjourned.’
Elder Dyer also mentioned to President McKay the revelations received at Far
West now in our Doctrine and Covenants.
Section 114
Concerns direction from the Lord that positions occupied by the unfaithful are to be given to others.
Section 115
Confirms the name of the Church and the building of the Far West Temple.
Section 116
Tells of the coming of Adam, the ‘Ancient of Days’ as spoken of by Daniel to
Adam-ondi-Ahman.
Section 117
Concerns that which is property unto the Lord.
Section 118
The will of the Lord concerning the Twelve – commandment to fill the places
of those who had fallen.
Section 119
Concerns the law of tithing.
Section 120
Disposition of properties tithed.
President Smith told of his father being born somewhere just west of the temple site. He lived to become the sixth president of the Church.
At Far West we all stood amazed at the fact that there remained nothing of Far West except the four stones of the temple excavation which at one time was dug and cleared by 500 brethren in preparation for a house of the Lord.
President McKay seemed pleased and elated at the fact that the Church owns 80 acres at Far West, including the dedicated temple site.
President McKay seemed visibly affected in the reflections of that which transpired at this hallowed and sacred place designated by the Lord as most holy.
The following morning at the Hotel Muelbach where we stayed overnight in Kansas City, he spoke of his feelings for what had transpired there and again referred to it as we waited between planes at Denver, Colorado.
Back at Kansas City, Missouri
The party returned to Kansas City on Highway 69 watching the vivid and inspiring red sunset. The evening was spent there at the Hotel Muelbach where the comfort of good accommodations were appreciated; all were tired and in need of rest.
Return Home – June 2, 1966
The party left Kansas City by U.A.L. jet at 9:15 a.m. about 25 minutes late, but had more than sufficient time to change to another U.A.L. jet flight out of Denver for Salt Lake City, arriving at 11:35 a.m.
It was a momentous and historically important trip. All marvelled at that which had been accomplished in just a little over one day. President McKay was in fine spirit and had been all during the trip and when he was bid farewell at the Hotel Utah, he expressed his great delight in having made the trip.
President Smith too was feeling fine and enjoyed the visit, speaking of his happiness that President McKay had visited these historically sacred places in Missouri.
Many Families Crowd Airport and Plane
Many families came to the airport to see the President if only from a distance. Some families were late arriving and the President had already been placed in the plane, a 727 Jetliner. The children appealed so strongly to a supervisor in the airport to let them come aboard to see the Prophet that the Customer Service agent arranged it and perhaps 50 mothers and children came on the plane to touch the hand of the Prophet; many of them kissed him upon the cheek.
Later in the morning as we were awaiting to take off from Denver, I asked the President if the trip was worthwhile. His answer was, ‘O yes, O yes!’ I also asked what place or part of the tour impressed him the most. His answer was, ‘It is difficult to say for it is all linked together.’ He spoke of the sacredness and beauty of Adam-ondi-Ahman and was greatly moved by the important future of Far West and of what transpired there. He said that the recounting of the historical events at Far West where the persecution of the saints centered and where the extermination order of Governor Boggs was imposed causing the expulsion of the saints from Missouri.
This journal record was typed from the notes kept by Elder Alvin R. Dyer
Date – June 7, 1966
Wednesday and Thursday, June 1 and 2, 1966
SUPPLEMENT: TO THE JOURNAL RECORD OF THE VISIT OF
PRESIDENT DAVID O. MCKAY TO ADAM-ONDI-AHMAN
Far West:
In connection with President McKay’s visit at Far West, on the date given, it is to be noted that while there the president appeared somewhat overwhelmed. The place made a deep impression upon him; so much so that he referred to Far West a number of times in the ensuring days as a place of deep impression.
The feeling that President McKay had at Far West registered upon me once again, but now with greater impact.
The events that transpired there are significant.
a) The Lord proclaimed Far West a holy and consecrated land unto Him, declaring to Joseph Smith that the very ground he stood on there was holy.
b) The Prophet Joseph Smith contended with the devil face to face for some time, upon the occasion of the power of evil menacing one of his children in the Prophet’s home just west of the temple-site. Lucifer declared that Joseph had no right to be there, that this was his place. Whereupon the Prophet rebuked Satan in the name of the Lord, and he departed and did not touch the child again.
c) The overwhelming feeling that President McKay had when he visited this sacred place.
The Answer:
I have often pondered the Holy significance of Far West, and even more so since President McKay’s visit.
The sacredness of Far West, Missouri, is no doubt due to the understanding that the Prophet Joseph Smith conveyed to the brethren, at these early times, that Adam-ondi-Ahman, the place to which Adam and Eve fled when cast out of the Garden of Eden, is where Adam erected an altar unto God, and offered sacrifices, and that Far West was the spot where Cain killed Abel.
This, information, tends to explain why the Lord declared Far West to be a holy consecrated place; and no doubt explains why Satan claimed that place as his own, as it was here that he entered into a covenant with Cain, resulting in the death of Abel the first of mortal existence upon this earth.
It would appear that President McKay while there felt the spirit and significance of this Holy Place.
Ref: D & C 115
The Meaning of Truth, Dyer, pp. 76, 77
Manuscript, Jerrald Tanner, op. cit. – Reed Peck”
Mon., 6 June 1966:
“Adam-ondi-Ahman – Decision to Purchase Additional Property
Brother Alvin R. Dyer came in by appointment and presented the two options to purchase real estate from Frederick W. and Joyce J. Dustman at Adam-ondi-Ahman.
Brother Dyer recommends, in which recommendation I concur, having visited and inspected the property in question, that the Church should exercise these options at once. I, therefore, prepared a directive to the Expenditures Committee asking that they appropriate $60,000 for the purchase of these 140 acres.
I asked Brother Dyer to have Mark B. Garff of the Building Committee submit the directive and request for the appropriation at the meeting of the Expenditures Committee tomorrow morning. (See copy of directive and options following; See also June 7 and 8 for further discussion)”
Wed., 8 June 1966:
“7:40 a.m.
Adam-ondi-Ahman – Appropriation by Expenditures Committee for Money to Purchase Property
Elder Alvin R. Dyer came in by appointment regarding the purchase of the 140 acres of land at Adam-ondi-Ahman, which I had inspected, and had later sent a letter to the Expenditures Committee asking them to appropriate the money for the purchase of this property. Brother Dyer said that the Expenditures Committee had refused to endorse the purchase when the matter was presented by Elder Mark B. Garff under my instructions. I told Brother Dyer that the Counselors had reported to me and that I shall now ask them to go forward with the purchase of this land. Brother Dyer said that from an investment standpoint alone it would be good, because the Church could turn around tomorrow, and sell it for twice as much as we are paying for it.
8:00 a.m.
Met my counselors, Presidents Brown, Tanner, and Smith, and held a meeting of the First Presidency. Some of the matters we discussed were:
Adam-ondi-Ahman – Purchase of Property
Elder Alvin R. Dyer, Assistant to the Twelve, met with us and a discussion was held regarding the proposed purchase of additional lands at Adam-ondi-Ahman near the site where the Pattonsburg Reservoir is to be built. This matter had been taken to the Expenditures Committee yesterday with a recommendation that the committee authorize the expenditure of $60,000 for land in the Spring Hill and Tower Hill areas. Elder Dyer reported that aerial photographs have been made and some money expended to make proper identification of these places.
It was reported that when this matter was discussed in the Expenditures Committee meeting yesterday, some question as raised as to the need for the amount of land suggested, namely, 140 acres, and also as to the cost of the land. It was Brother Dyer’s understanding that the price we would have to pay for the land is $234 per acre, whereas if there are only 140 acres and we pay $60,000 for the land, it would mean that we are paying over $400 per acre. It was understood by the brethren that the question involved is whether we want to build a Bureau of Information there and a place to receive and instruct tourists, and in connection therewith the amount of land that would be required to take care of the project. Elder Dyer explained somewhat the history of the area and the Church’s need as he understood it for owning this property. In answer to an inquiry as to how many people would visit the area after the dam is completed he stated that estimates indicate that there will probably be four or five million people visit it each year.
President Tanner reported that in discussing the matter in the Expenditures Committee yesterday, the brethren indicated that if it was my desire that this land be purchased, they would of course have no objection. The land which it is proposed to buy consists of two properties on which we have options, one of which would cost us $35,000 and the other $25,000.
Elder Dyer thought this would be a wonderful opportunity for us to tell the story of the Church to the people who will come to that area for recreation purposes. Elder Dyer said that if we want the property, we should go ahead and exercise our options on it. He stated that he would check the acreage as he was not sure on that point.
Following the discussion, I authorized Brother Dyer to prepare the papers for the acquisition of the property, and then go forward with the project.
Tues., 14 June 1966:
10:15 a.m.
Adam-ondi-Ahman – Request for Purchase of Land
Brother Alvin R. Dyer came in and reported that the request for purchase of property at Adam-ondi-Ahman is being presented again today to the Committee on Expenditures. (See following copy of request.)”
Mon., 22 Aug. 1966:
“Youth Riots in Colleges Throughout the Country
Read Brother Alvin R. Dyer’s report on riots to be held on college campuses throughout the United States. These demonstrations will be similar to that which was conducted on the Berkeley College campus last year, and are planned to be conducted just prior to election day on November 4, 5, and 6.
I dictated a letter to Elder Dyer, asking him and Bishop Robert L. Simpson of the Presiding Bishopric to take this matter in hand and see what can be done to prevent these riots on the campuses in this area.
Monday, August 22, 1966
Report on Youth Demonstration Planned for November 4th, 5th, and 6th, 1966
Elder Dyer introduced a report that had come to him from Will Brown (Will Brown is the brother who showed the General Authorities the colored film of the student revolt at Berkeley) of a planned nation-wide youth demonstration that is set for November. He mentioned the Berkeley Revolt, and said this was apparently maneuvered by Bettina Aptheker, who is the daughter of Herbert Aptheker. Mr. Aptheker is the leading Communist theoretician in the United States and for a number of years was editor of a Communist political journal in this country.
Elder Dyer reported that there is a massive nation-wide protest demonstration being planned for November 4th, 5th, and 6th, just before election time (election day is the 8th). It may be sponsored by the National Student Association or other groups such as the Methodist, Catholic, and Unitarian Churches, or Y.M.C.A., Y.W.C.A., P.T.A, etc. If carried out it will appear to have adequate backing in each community. It is reported by Will Brown that student groups at two high schools in Salt Lake City and the University of Utah are making preparations to participate.
This appears to be a Communist diversion effort using an anti-war front. The behind the scenes promotion is largely being managed by Bettina Aptheker, who worked similarly at the Berkeley revolt, and other youth Communist leaders. Though they are giving the impression that they represent anti-war groups, their efforts are almost certainly to be of a subversive nature.
Elder Dyer added that the BYU has withdrawn from the N.S.A. This was checked out with Dean J. Elliot Cameron, Dean of Students at the BYU, and he said that the BYU has not been a member of the N.S.A. as long as he has been there which is four years. He said there was a congressional investigation of the N.S.A. and found that it had red affiliations. The BYU checked it out and found that it was true. Within the last 30 days he has had a contact from a former student attending a meeting in Indiana. There was an indication that Bettina Aptheker had made contact with them and that they were going to use this organization for demonstrations in November of this year.
It was reported by Brother Brown that lectures were sponsored at the University of Utah in October of 1965 under the auspices of the Channing Club of the local Unitarian Church. They brought in Daniel Rubin who is the national youth leader of the Communist Party, and Terence Hallinan who is associated with him.
Elder Dyer felt that committee members ought to be aware of the situation and perhaps this report supplemented by further inquiry should come before the Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve.
Prominent people in local churches, P.T.A. organizations, etc. will no doubt say that they see nothing wrong with young people being interested in politics. These events, if they materialize, will have good publicity because of the prominent people who no doubt will be backing them. He said he felt everybody who has anything to do with youth or school activities or newspaper reporting ought to be alerted to this situation. He felt that if the Deseret News reported this item, they ought to know the full facts.
Elder Young said he felt some approach to this problem ought to be made through the Priesthood program of the Church. He asked if the Berkeley Revolt had been backed by people other than students. Elder Dyer said there were professors supporting it. Elder Young commented that it was a pity those who oppose communism exaggerate too much. He felt that if someone were to go to the Priesthood Quorums and just state the facts as they are, that the demonstration is planned for November, and that the people who head it are Communists, then if the story were not enlarged, the Priesthood holders would be warned of the situation.
Elder Dyer said he had spoken with a teacher of a high school in the city who felt that 95% of the students would think this demonstration was a protest against war and not realize that it was a communist-theory diversive front.
Elder Dyer said he felt this matter should be mentioned to President McKay and Bishop Simpson commented that perhaps President McKay would have a special announcement about it at General Conference in October, as a means of warning the people; a declaration of this kind, he felt, would have a tremendous impact.
Elder Dyer discussed the idea of calling some of the faculty of the various schools to ask them if they were aware of this situation; he said, of course, that it would have to be done privately, rather than in the name of the Church, and that perhaps President McKay would want to appoint a committee to work on this. He said that even if 90% of the youth did not participate in the demonstration, they would be watching it, and it would have an effect upon them. Bishop Simpson commented that 99% of young people who participate in revolts of this kind are the rebellious type; those who rebel against authority, their parents, etc.
Monday, August 22, 1966
August 22, 1966
Elder Alvin R. Dyer
Assistant to the Twelve
Building
Dear Brother Dyer:
I have just read your report regarding the National Youth Demonstrations similar to that which was conducted on the Berkeley campus last year, which are planned to be held in colleges all over the nation on November 4, 5, and 6, 1966, just before election day.
I was shocked when I saw the film on the Berkeley revolt, and feel concerned that ‘massive nation-wide student protest demonstrations are being planned.’
I should appreciate it if you and Bishop Robert L. Simpson would investigate this matter thoroughly and do whatever you can to offset these planned demonstrations in this area.
Sincerely yours,
David O. McKay
(President)”
Tues., 6 Sept. 1966:
“10:30 a.m.
Brother and Sister Alvin R. Dyer, who came in to extend their greetings and best wishes for my Ninety-third Birthday, were also present during the visit of the Peach Days delegation.
Following the departure of the group, Brother Dyer mentioned the film that had been taken during our historic trip to Missouri when we inspected property at Adam-ondi-Ahman. I asked him if it were possible to see the film this morning, and he said that he would call and have the film brought over immediately.
Within a few moments, Brother Lamar S. Williams came over with the film and a screen, and showed Sister McKay and me the pictures that had been taken of our visit to Adam-ondi-Ahman, Far West, Liberty Jail, and other points of interest. There were some excellent pictures and I was happy to have Sister McKay and the others all see the places we visited.
I thanked Brother Dyer for his kindness, and told him how much I appreciate what he had done to make that trip comfortable and interesting in every way. Just before their departure, Sister Dyer said that she had learned that I like coconut cake, and that she was going right home to bake the cake and would bring it to us this afternoon. At 1:00 p.m., she delivered a beautiful cake to us as a birthday present to me.
Fri., 2 Dec. 1966:
Clare also presented letters and reported office matters to me. Said that Elder Alvin R. Dyer would like to see me about the property the Church owns just across the road from the Reorganized Church’s auditorium in Independence. I told Clare to make an appointment for him immediately.
Mon., 5 Dec. 1966:
“8:00 a.m.
Report on Property at Independence, Missouri
Elder Alvin R. Dyer came in by appointment and discussed with me the desire of Mr. Alan Slayton, President of the Boys’ Club of Independence, Missouri, to lease a piece of the Church’s property on South Pleasant Street, upon which to erect a building for the Boys’ Club, and also that the Church make a substantial contribution toward the construction of the building. Elder Dyer read to me excerpts from a letter addressed to President Keysor from Mr. Slayton.
I asked Elder Dyer many questions about matters in Missouri and asked him to pursue this matter of a building on our property in Independence working with the Building Department, and report to me later the developments.
I agreed with Elder Dyer that the Church, in order to protect its heritage, its temple land properties, and our destined future there, should now move to make evident to those in and out of the Church that we stand firm on the revelations concerning the future of this place. Brother Dyer mentioned that there are some in the Church who feel that we shall not return to the center stake of Zion, and I commented that revelations confirm the return to the center place as a reality. We also spoke of the fact that every President of the Church, at one time or another, had confirmed the return to the center place in their own expressions. (For details of conversation, see report by Elder Dyer which follows.)
Adam-Ondi-Ahman
Brother Dyer reported that the Church Legal Department has processed the purchasing of the property at Adam-Ondi-Ahman, including Spring Hill, and that the money was sent to the land agent, and that the Church would soon hold title to the property. I expressed satisfaction that this matter has been attended to.
Monday, December 5, 1966
Report of Visit with President David O. McKay
Re: Independence, Mo.
Property December 5, 1966
By – Elder Alvin R. Dyer
I arrived at the President’s apartment at 8:00 a.m. and was admitted by his nurse. I was with the President for one hour leaving the apartment at 9:02 a.m.
President McKay was in his study when I arrived and upon seeing me beckoned to me to come into his study. He said he was glad to see me and was happy that I came. He asked me to pull up a chair, which I did very close to him so that he could hear of the purpose of my visit.
The President looked wonderful, better than I remembered him on my last visit. His eyes were clear and he spoke distinctly. He recalled our visit to Adam-ondi-Ahman and Far West, Missouri, some five months ago stating that he would never forget that visit and how impressed he was.
I first mentioned the property at Adam-ondi-Ahman that the Church was purchasing including Spring Hill, and reported to him that the Church Legal Department has processed the matter and that the money was sent to the land agent about two weeks ago, and that the Church would soon hold title to the property. The President expressed his gratification that this had been done.
I next read excerpts from a letter sent to President Keysor of the Central States Mission, from Alan Slayton, the President of the Boys’ Club of Independence, Missouri, which letter had been forwarded to me.
In the letter the Church is asked to lease a segment of Church property on South Pleasant Street, roughly 330 feet by 330 feet, for a substantial period of time to the Boy’s Club on the basis of a token rental payment. Suggesting also that the Church might be willing to make a contribution to the building program of the club.
I explained to the President that the property was not part of the ‘temple land’, but that the request posed a serious problem to the Church, not so much for the particular piece of property requested, but that the entire vacant property holdings of the Church in Independence, and particularly the ‘temple land’, consisting of about 25 acres, was vulnerable to such requests as the one made by the officers of the Boys Club.
I recalled to the President the situation that faced the Church some 12 or 13 years ago when a substantial part of our land there, all ‘temple land’ property, was asked for on a long lease type arrangement, to build a senior high school. The Church got off the hook on this one, pending a possible condemnation of the property, by contributing $50,000 toward the construction of the Van Horn High School on Truman Avenue. Mayor Weatherford of Independence told me that because of the generosity of the Church that so long as he was mayor, no effort would be made to gain the use of any of the vacant Church property. But, I explained to the President that Weatherford is no longer mayor.
Upon the request of President McKay, as to what we should do in the matter, I suggested the erection of a Church building on our segment of the ‘temple land’, at Walnut and River Streets, to serve a three-fold purpose:
1. The erection of our own building would tend to forestall any condemnation
of needed property for community purposes.
2. It would establish the concern of the Church with regard to our sacred belief,
that this is the center place of Zion, and that our solemn conviction is that in the time of the Lord this will be the principle place of gathering in accordance with the revelations. Such action would counter the declarations of the R.L.D.S., that the so-called ‘Utah Church’, as they refer to us, are no longer interested in the ‘center place’. They have placed particular stress upon this since we traded them four lots on the ‘temple land’ properties for a small lot in Nauvoo.
3. That such a building used as a Bureau of Information could reaffirm to the R.L.D.S. and the world that we are vitally interested in the center place of Zion, and also the areas round about Liberty, Far West, and Adam-ondi-Ahman. That sites for three temples have already been dedicated. That the destiny of the Church, the return of the lost tribes, etc., will center in that area, as the Lord has declared. The building and purpose of temples could be highlighted in the bureau and other essential elements of the restoration.
We discussed the fact that the Church, to protect its heritage, its temple land properties, and our destined future, should now move to make this evident to those in and out of the Church, in preparation for the day, in accordance with the will of the Father and the Son, the law of the Kingdom of God at a future time concerning the revelations that will go forth from that place.
I mentioned to President McKay that there were some in the Church who felt that we would not return there. His comment about this was that the revelations confirmed the return to the center place as a reality. We spoke of the fact that every President of the Church, at one time or another, had confirmed this in their own expressions.
I read to President McKay a part of a letter from J.L. Verhei, once a prominent leader of the R.L.D.S. in the northwest, now a member of our Church who made the statement:
‘What I’d like to know is why doesn’t the Church do something
with the property at Independence, Missouri? Is it still the place
of Zion, and will the saints gather there again …All the books and
pamphlets in the world wouldn’t do one mite in comparison with
improvements at Independence.’
(Letter to Alvin R. Dyer, October 21, 1966)
In the course of the conversation, President McKay asked me if I were still a member of the Missouri Historical Society. I told him that I was not now a member. He then instructed me to renew my place with this society.
In response to the suggestion I made to President McKay regarding our temple land property, he gave me the direct assignment to pursue this matter working with our Building Department to prepare concept plans with elevation schematics to show just how a building could be placed on our temple land property at River and Walnut Streets. The President stated that I was to report directly to him on this assignment, and that he would await the report.
In answer to his question, I told him I was reasonably certain that such a project, building, landscaping, parking, bureau displays, furnishings, etc., could be achieved for not more than a million dollars.
The President was most receptive to the whole idea, and expressed himself several times as to his appreciation to me for bringing the matter to his attention, and asked, as I left him, that I pursue the matter at once and report.
I mentioned to the President that a Mr. Cole of Hillsdale, Illinois, had made request of the Building Committee offering to purchase 12 walnut trees at Adam-ondi-Ahman for $500. He felt that nothing should be done with anything on the property at this time.
I expressed to the President how well he looked and that he was the most amazing man I had ever known. I told him that his influence on my own life was most predominate. I assured him that each day my prayers were that he would live to consummate his great work here upon the earth. Both of our eyes became moist as there seemed to be a feeling of common understanding. It was an inspiring spiritual experience.
Alvin R. Dyer
December 6, 1966″
Fri., 23 Dec. 1966:
“10:45 a.m.
Visit to Private Office in Church Office Building
Arrived at my private office in company with Sister McKay. I remarked to my secretary how good it seemed to come to my office once more.
Elder and Sister Alvin R. Dyer were there to greet us. They expressed their joy at seeing us, and then Sister Dyer handed Sister McKay two packages, saying, ‘There are just small tokens of our great love for you.’
Wed., 4 Jan. 1967:
“10:30 a.m.
My secretary, Clare, came over — the first time in several days. She took up letters and other office matters with me.
I told her that with President Brown’s frequent illnesses, and President Isaacson’s physical impairments caused by his stroke, I may have to take steps to call some additional counselors.
Clare mentioned that I looked tired, and suggested that I take a rest. She said she would come back tomorrow and take up the balance of the work she had brought with her.
I admitted that I was tired, and did not feel up to take up more work today. Clare then left, and I took a rest on the couch in the office.”
Wed., 18 Jan. 1967:
11:00 – 12:30 p.m.
Conference with my secretary Clare. Told her of my great worry that all is not right; that I need more help, and that I shall have to appoint another counselor to help carry on the work, as President Brown is ill a good deal of the time, and President Isaacson has not improved as I have hoped and prayed he would — his speech has gone almost completely; he is crippled so that it is most difficult for him to get around. I have been thinking of someone who can take President Isaacson’s place.
Note by CM
At this point President McKay leaned his head back on the chair, closed his eyes, and in deep thought said to his secretary, ‘Name to me the Brethren.’ She called off the names of the Brethren of the Twelve, and President McKay said, ‘No, not among them — like President Isaacson.’ She then named the Brethren of the Assistants to the Twelve, among whom was Elder Alvin R. Dyer. As the secretary gave Elder Dyer’s name, President McKay raised his head, opened his eyes, and said, ‘That’s the one. I like him. He is the one I have been thinking of; he is a man of good judgment and dependability.’
Tues., 31 Jan. 1967:
“8:30 a.m.
Held a meeting with Presidents Tanner and Smith. President Brown was now present because he was involved in an automobile accident; President Isaacson still absent on account of illness.
Some of the items we considered were:
Jackson County – Temple Fund
A letter was read from Alvin R. Dyer enclosing a letter and check in the amount of $200 from J. Harvey Hall of Hurricane, Utah, which amount Brother Hall wishes placed in a trust fund for the Jackson County Temple project. Brother Anderson was requested to make inquiry as to the manner in which these funds are held by the Church and report back. We agreed that we do not favor the soliciting of funds at this time for the Jackson County Temple.”
Wed., 1 Feb. 1967:
“Did not hold a meeting of the First Presidency. I have a sore shoulder, having bruised it in a fall. I have considerable pain when I try to move my arm.
10:25 a.m.
Met by appointment Elder Alvin R. Dyer, who presented matters pertaining to the building of a Bureau of Information at Independence, and other matters. (See following minutes by Elder Dyer written at my request.)
Brother Dyer then left for the Church Administration Building.
11:30 – 12:30 p.m.
My secretary, Clare, came in by appointment to take up matters pertaining to correspondence and other office matters.
I reported to her for the diary that I had had a very satisfactory interview with Elder Dyer, and said that I am going to call Brother Dyer to be one of my Counselors, to take up the duties performed by President Thorpe B. Isaacson before he was stricken with a stroke a year ago. I said that the more I consult with Brother Dyer and talk to him about various Church matters, the more convinced I am and the more my impressions are confirmed that I should call him as one of my Counselors. I stated that I have every confidence in him.
My secretary answered, ‘You startled me several days ago when, out of the clear blue sky, you said that you were going to call Brother Dyer as a Counselor. You really have given this a lot of thought and prayer, haven’t you?’, and I answered, ‘Oh, yes, I have given it a great deal of thought for sometime now, and have made it a matter of prayer.’
Wednesday, February 1, 1967
REPORT ON VISIT WITH PRESIDENT DAVID O. MCKAY
Date: February 1, 1967
Time: 10:50 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Place: Apartment Office of President McKay (Hotel Utah)
Present: President David O. McKay
Elder Alvin R. Dyer
Clare Middlemiss
Items Discussed
1. Property at Adam-ondi-Ahman – Elder Dyer reported to President McKay that the Church was now in possession of the deed of ownership of Spring Hill and the small valley of Adam-ondi-Ahman and other land connected with these (some 140 acres) at Adam-ondi-Ahman, in Daviess County, Missouri. Elder Dyer stated that the Church now owns 38 other acres including Tower Hill, bringing to a total approximately 180 acres now owned by the Church at this sacred place which is important to the future of the Church.
Elder Dyer reported that a letter had been received from Dudley Brandom, of the Missouri Land Title Company of Gallatin, Missouri, the company who handled the purchase of property reported in the foregoing, which stated that the Andrews-Madgett Land Company, who have purchased 3000 acres of land just north of the property now owned by the Church at Adam-ondi-Ahman, have manifested an interest in meeting with Church representatives pertaining to land developments in this area. This land company have preliminary plans for a vast development of a recreational facilities (motels, playgrounds, boat harbors, etc.) along the shore line of the lake created by the erection of the Pattonsburg Dam at Adam-ondi-Ahman. President McKay asked Brother Dyer to keep in touch with this.
2. Independence, Missouri – In light of a direct assignment given by President McKay to Elder Dyer, a report was made by him pertaining to the progress being made on the progress in the preparation of schematic drawings for a proposed Bureau of Information to be erected on that part of the Temple Land at Independence, Missouri, owned by the Church. Elder Dyer stated that a topographical survey had been made of the land, and now received. In consequence of this the Church Building Committee, in consultation with Elder Dyer, were preparing schematic plans for the building. Emil Fetzer has been assigned by the Building Committee to work with the project. It was reported to the President that in the preparation of the schematics that consideration was being given to the information on the plat plan of the City of Zion, prepared by the Prophet Joseph Smith. This plan includes a complex of 24 buildings in addition to the temple of the New Jerusalem. With the idea, that as precisely as possible, conforming to the prophet’s plan and the revelations, as to size and possible location, that the building which we are now proposing for erection as a bureau, could later fit the need of one of the buildings of the temple complex.
President McKay asked how soon these initial plans would be ready. He seemed very intent about the matter, inquiring if Brother Fetzer was the right man to work on this. Elder Dyer assured him that he was and that an effort would be made to have the schematic drawings ready to show the President by the end of February. The President was very pleased with this hoped for early preparation, and asked that this project be pursued with all possible haste, but with care. He then said that he held Elder Dyer responsible to following through on it.
3. Matters of business of the Church should not circumvent the President of the Church – The conversation at this point concerned incidents in Church history when certain leaders in the Church close to the Prophet attempted to circumvent him or to usurp his right as the ‘one’ appointed to preside. Specific reference was made to Section 28 of the Doctrine and Covenants concerning Oliver Cowdery who sought to elevate himself resulting in the following words from the Lord to him:
‘But, behold, verily, verily, I say unto thee, no one shall be appointed to receive commandments and revelations in this church excepting my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., for he receiveth them even as Moses.
‘And thou shalt be obedient unto the things which I shall give unto him, even as Aaron, to declare faithfully the commandments and the revelations, with power and authority unto the church.
‘And if thou art led at any time by the Comforter to speak or teach, or at all times by the way of commandment unto the church thou mayest do it.
‘But thou shalt not write by way of commandment, but by wisdom;
‘And thou shalt not command him who is at thy head, and at the head of the church;
‘For I have given him the keys of the mysteries, and the revelations which are sealed, until I shall appoint unto them another in his stead.’
(D & C 28:2-7)
Reference was also made to Section 85 regarding Bishop Edward Partridge who placed himself above the Prophet in certain matters in Zion, wherein the Lord gave unto him these warning words:
‘While that man, who was called of God and appointed, that putteth forth his hand to steady the ark of God, shall fall by the shaft of death, lie as a tree that is smitten by the vivid shaft of lightning.’
(D & C 85:8)
Elder Dyer also commented on the statements of the Prophet in Liberty Jail regarding the failure of many of the leaders of the Church to support him, the reasons for which given by revelation to the Prophet.
‘Behold, there are many called, but few are chosen. And why are they not chosen?
‘Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of this world, and aspire to the honors of men, that they do not learn this one lesson —
‘That the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness.’
(D & C 121:34-36)
‘We have learned by sad experience that it is the nature and disposition of almost all men, as soon as they get a little authority, as they suppose, they will immediately begin to exercise unrighteous dominion.
(D & C 121:39)
President McKay nodded his head in assent to these things that had happened.
Elder Dyer pointed out that whenever the President and Prophet had not been given the full support of those close to him, that the work had suffered, that all matters pertaining to Church business, spiritual or temporal, should have the understanding approval of the President, for he is God’s Priesthood representative. This one thing alone, if there were no other, distinguishes us from other churches of men, that if in our own day these things were happening, it would prove to the detriment of the Church.
Elder Dyer expressed his love for him to President McKay, wanting to help him in any way he could. The President asked the Lord to bless Elder Dyer in his work and tears came to his eyes as the interview came to a close.”
Tues., 14 Feb. 1967:
“8:30 a.m.
Held a meeting with the First Presidency — Presidents Tanner and Smith being the only Counselors present. Presidents Brown and Isaacson were excused.
Some of the matters we considered and gave attention to were:
Jackson County Temple – Contribution to
Attention was called to a letter from J. Harvey Hall addressed to Alvin R. Dyer enclosing a check for $200 as a contribution to the Jackson County, Missouri Temple project. Elder Dyer sends this to the First Presidency in his letter of January 13, 1967. Upon inquiry of the Financial Department, it is learned that a contribution of $2,000 to the Jackson County Temple is on the Church books as a bequest earmarked for the Temple in Jackson County.
We decided that this contribution should be handled in the same manner.
10:15 a.m.
By appointment at my request, Elder Alvin R. Dyer came in and had a discussion with me. At my request, he recorded our conversation and I have included it herewith after having read and approved its contents. (See memorandum following.)
I was very much interested in and gratified with my conversation with Elder Dyer. He is a man in whom I have great confidence, and I feel that I can trust him, and that he is loyal in every respect.
Following Elder Dyer’s departure, I had my secretary, Clare, come over to the office in the Hotel. For the next hour I took up office matters with her.
Tuesday, February 14, 1967
Report of Visit with President David O. McKay on Tuesday, February 14, 1967, by Elder Alvin R. Dyer.
President McKay’s nurse called me in my Church office at about 10:10 a.m. and said that President McKay wanted to see me right away. I arrived at his hotel apartment at about 10:15 a.m. to find the President seated in his study. He was about to take some liquid nourishment and pills. The nurse brought me a glass of fresh orange juice so that I might drink with the President.
He was reading a letter from Richard L. Evans, which enclosed a number of newspaper clippings concerning his travels as President of Rotary International. The President asked me if I was a member of Rotary, and I informed him that I was not, but that for many years I had served with the Exchange Club, and that other than two Engineering Societies, I had never belonged to any other group outside of the church.
The President again talked about the trip we took together to Missouri last year with President Smith. He indicated how much more important the consecrated places in Missouri seemed to him now. I ventured that if it were possible, all of the General Authorities should go to Missouri, to Independence, Liberty, Far West, and Adam-ondi-Ahman, and then perhaps their concept of what transpired there in the early days of the Church in laying the foundation of Zion would be broadened. But I said, ‘If all the Brethren were to go at one time, the members of the Church, hearing of it, would think that the Millennium was here for sure.’ The President enjoyed this and had a good humored laugh.
We talked of the revelations which the Lord had given to the Prophet concerning Zion, and the New Jerusalem, and that a great many were given after Section 28 which concerned Zion and the law of Consecration. We talked of Missouri, as a period of test for many of the leading brethren and the members. We discussed the confinement of Joseph Smith in Liberty Prison, of how he must have pondered about the many hindrances to the growth of the Church, of how the Lord pin-pointed, in a revelation contained in Section 121, the reasons why so many of the leading Brethren fell by the way side, caused by their unwillingness to follow the Prophet Joseph Smith, and to recognize him as the Lord’s anointed to stand at the head.
I read to the President from Section 121, verses 34 and 39, and the President began to quote them word for word, so I stopped reading. These verses are as follows:
‘Behold, there are many called, but few are chosen. And why are they not chosen?
‘Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of this world, and aspire to the honors of men, that they do not learn this one lesson —
That the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the power of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness.
That they may be conferred upon us, it is true; but when we undertake to cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain ambition, or to exercise control or dominion or compulsion upon the souls of the children of men, in any degree of unrighteousness, behold, the heavens withdraw themselves; the Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when it is withdrawn, Amen to the priesthood or the authority of that man.
Behold, ere he is aware, he is left unto himself, to kick against the pricks, to persecute the saints, and to fight against God.
We have learned by sad experience that it is the nature and disposition of almost all men, as soon as they get a little authority, as they suppose, they will immediately begin to exercise unrighteous dominion.’
I then read the Lord’s admonition to the Twelve at Kirtland, Ohio at a time when a member of the First Presidency, some of the Twelve and First Council of Seventy, sought to cast Him aside and organize their own church. The Prophet seemed deeply interested as I read these words:
‘Exalt not yourselves; rebel not against my servant Joseph; for verily I say unto you, I am with him, and my hand shall be over him; and the keys which I have given unto him, and also to you ward, shall not be taken from him till I come.’
I commented, if the final decisions in this Church were not made by the President, then we were just another church without a divine head who is appointed to represent the Lord in all things.
I mentioned that whenever leaders in the Church in high places sought to circumvent the President of the High Priesthood, then the Church and those who sought this were out of harmony. ‘Yes’, said President McKay, ‘we have that condition in the Church today.’ I commented that this should not be so!
We talked at considerable length about Missouri and the center place of Zion, and of the great things the Lord had in store for the faithful. President McKay then commented that he felt that I knew more about the future of the Church as it would center in the days of the final gathering of the Lord’s chosen than any other man in the Church. He then said that he held me responsible for any purchases of land in Jackson County and in that area needful to the purposes of the Church.
I reported to the President that by the end of February we would have ready for his consideration the Schematic drawings for the building proposed for our Temple land property in Independence, Missouri. He seemed pleased with this report and said he is anxious to see them.
The President asked if I had any outside interest, and I told him that I had sold the last of my business interests ten years ago, and that since that time I had devoted all my time to the Church. I mentioned that there were times when Sister Dyer and I needed more money than we had, but this only for our children, and that so far as we were concerned personally, we were getting along all right financially.
The conversation led to the stroke that President Isaacson had experienced. The President said that he was making a heroic effort to get well, but it seemed doubtful. I mentioned that Sister Ida Romney had suffered a stroke recently, and President McKay said he knew of this, and also that Brother Marion G. Romney had been operated on for his eye. I then told President McKay that my father had a stroke when he was seventy-seven, and for six years was virtually an invalid before he died.
I related to President McKay of once attending a Father’s and Son’s Priesthood meeting in the old Salt Lake Stake, where Apostle James E. Talmadge spoke very realistically about the test of faith in the last days. I was greatly impressed. I think it was President Nephi L. Morris, brother of George Q. Morris, who asked openly in the meeting what the best safeguard would be in these troubled times. I told the President that I would always remember Brother Talmadge’s answer, which was: ‘Brethren, follow the Prophet of God.’
President McKay then asked me what position I held in the Church, and I answered that I was an Assistant to the Twelve. He then asked me how many Assistants there were, and I replied twelve.
The President then looked directly into my eyes and hesitated, then said, ‘Have you been sustained as an Assistant?’ My answer was yes, that I had been an Assistant to the Twelve for eight years, being called to that position while I was serving as a Counselor to Joseph T. Bentley in the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association. He answered, ‘Yes, I remember the occasion.’
The President again looked into my face, and my eyes caught his; it seemed that several moments passed before he spoke again, and then he said, ‘Brother Dyer, you are to be sustained as an Assistant to the Twelve.’ I was a little perplexed at this statement, and again mentioned that I had been an Assistant for eight years. What he meant was a higher position.
More than an hour had passed, and we had spent a most profitable time together. The President said that he was very pleased with our conversation, and was so happy that I had come to sit down with him. I told him how grateful I was to have been invited by him to come, that to be in his presence was a real joy. I told him how happy I was that we now had the deed to Spring Hill at Adam-ondi-Ahman, but that we never would have obtained it if it hadn’t been for him, for some of the brethren opposed the purchase. His answer was, ‘Yes, I know, but I am pleased that we now have the dead.’
In parting he blessed me and grasped my hand and held to it for quite some time, saying again that he had enjoyed my visit.”
Wed., 15 Feb. 1967:
11:15 – 1:00 p.m.
My secretary, Clare, came over and presented a number of letters and Church matters that had come to my office.
After talking over a few matters, I remarked that President Isaacson is not going to get better, that I am going to call Alvin R. Dyer as my counselor.”
Thurs., 16 Feb. 1967:
“4:30 p.m.
Brother Alvin R. Dyer called at the apartment at my request, and gave me a report on matters pertaining to the Independence property, and also on the set-up of the new Deseret Management Corporation. (See memorandum following.)”
Mon., 20 Feb., 1967:
11:30 to 12:00 noon
Clare took up a number of important letters and office matters with me.
After talking with her about the work and the fact that President Isaacson is not improving to the point where he will be able to come back to the office, I said that I have in mind choosing Brother Alvin R. Dyer as a counselor in the First Presidency.'”
Wed., 8 Mar. 1967:
“8:30 a.m.
Held at the apartment a meeting of the First Presidency — Presidents Brown and Tanner were present. President Smith was excused as he was attending a quarterly meeting of the Twelve. President Isaacson still at home ill due to a stroke. Among a number of items considered were:
10:30 a.m.
Brother Alvin R. Dyer came in and reported to me, at my request, matters pertaining to the Deseret Management Corporation. (See March 15, 1967, for Brother Dyer’s report)
Following Brother Dyer’s departure, I joined Sister McKay in the living room where I rested the balance of the morning.”
Fri., 10 Mar. 1967:
“9:40 a.m.
Independence, Missouri – Bureau of Information at
By appointment I met with Brother Mark B. Garff and Emil Fetzer of the Church Building Committee and Brother Alvin R. Dyer, Assistant to the Twelve.
Elder Dyer reported that, in accordance with the assignment I had given him, Emil Fetzer, architect, and he had made a trip to Independence to study the lay of the land. They reported that the Church owns about 18 acres of the original 63 plus acres of ‘temple land’ property which had been dedicated by the Prophet Joseph Smith.
They showed me a plat plan of the Temple property, and we spent some time discussing the fact that the erection of a building on our Temple land would eliminate any possibility of condemnation procedures that may otherwise develop. Also that it would probably establish the Church in a better image to the world and the Reorganized Church membership in an area most vital to the restoration of the Gospel, and, further, that a Bureau of Information there, together with our newly-acquired radio broadcasting facilities in Kansas City, could be developed into a great center of tourist attraction.
After some discussion I stated that we definitely should not lose control of any of that land, and asked that the brethren again go over the whole proposal that I could have the whole plan clearly in mind. The brethren then went over the entire proposition, and after much thought, I said, ‘All right, let us go ahead with the Bureau.’ Brother Garff said, ‘All right, we shall go ahead, but we shall now have to get an appropriation for the architectural fees and the building, and said, ‘This is true, but go ahead.’
For the full hour we had much joy and satisfaction in discussing this matter, and a very good feeling existed about the decision that had been made.
Brother Garff told me not to be concerned about the cost of the Bureau on the Temple land in Independence, because the Building Committee had now turned back to the Church sixteen million dollars, and he showed me an auditor’s statement to that effect. Brother Garff also said that the Carthage Bureau in Illinois is costing the Church more than the one that has been proposed for Independence, Missouri. (For details see following minutes as written by Brother Dyer at my request.)
Brother Dyer later reported that in pursuing the matter of obtaining funds for the proposed Bureau of Information on our Temple land property at Independence, Missouri, Elder Mark E. Petersen felt that if the matter were brought up before the Quorum of the Twelve first, it would get more rapid approval before the Committee on Expenditures.
This matter was, therefore, brought up at the Council Meeting held March 23, 1967, in the Salt Lake Temple. Brother Petersen, in presenting the matter to the Twelve, said that the Church Information Committee feels that the amount of money it would cost to establish such a bureau and operate it could probably be spent with greater profit somewhere else. The question then came up about ‘some threat that our property in Independence on the Temple lot might be condemned.’ The decision was made to confer with the Legal Department to see if there is any threat to our property in Independence. See April 14, 1967, for report on this, and for my letter of authorization to go ahead with the building of the Bureau. Also see former minutes regarding letter from Boy’s Club in Independence asking for permission to erect a building on our Temple property for a Boys Club.
Friday, March 10, 1967
Report of Meeting with President David O. McKay on March 10, 1967, at his Hotel Utah Apartment Office
Prepared by Alvin R. Dyer
On this day, at 9:40 a.m., in company with Mark B. Garff and Emil Fetzer of the Church Building Committee, I met with President David O. McKay.
Purpose of Meeting
The purpose of the meeting was to report to the President on an assignment given to me, to give consideration to the erecting of a Bureau of Information on the temple land property owned by the Church at Independence, Missouri.
I reported that Emil Fetzer and I had made a trip to Independence to study the lay of the land, and had made arrangements while there for a topographical or contour map to be made that could be used for architectural reasons.
Emil Fetzer Presents Schematic Drawings
I mentioned to the President that at the present time the Church owned about 18 acres of the original 63 plus acres of ‘temple land’ property which had been dedicated by the Prophet Joseph Smith. A plat plan of the temple property was shown the President, with that segment belonging to the Church indicated. An overlay sheet was placed in position representing a study of the temple complex which in the time of the Lord will be built upon the whole of this sacred piece of land. This overlay gives evidence of the size of the ‘temple complex, and how it might possibly set upon the temple land.
I explained to the President that the Prophet Joseph Smith, in the early days sent a plat plan of the city of Zion (New Jerusalem) which included the temple complex, from Kirtland, Ohio, to the brethren in Jackson County, Missouri. This plan was prepared in the Prophet’s own hand, and that the original was in the Church Historian’s Office.
Conjointly with Brother Fetzer, we reported to the President that our study in this direction was to undertake, if we could, to ascertain which of the temple buildings designated would presumably be located on that part of the temple land that the Church owned. This we had arrived at, and had determined which of these locations would be concentrated upon, for the erection of a building for the purpose intended. The temple buildings, except the temple where the Lord will officially appear as spoken of in the revelations are represented on the Prophet’s plan as houses, buildings, or temples of certain orders of the Priesthood. There will be 25 buildings in all occupying about 35 acres.
The hope of all this is to be as realistic as possible in the erection of a building, the basic structure of which could be used at a future date as part of the temple complex, but to be designed and erected now as a Bureau of Information.
Brother Fetzer identified on the overlay sheet the particular building location which we proposed to use which someday perchance could be a part of the over-all complex.
Brother Garff stated to the President that as he understood it our proposal now was for one building properly situated on our temple land which would be used for a Bureau of Information. That no other structure or any part of the temple complex is presumed.
President McKay was very intent as he listened to the presentation, asking a number of questions concerning the size and facility of the structure being discussed. In answer to these questions, Brother Fetzer presented to the president several schematic drawings of floor plans, elevation perspective, access roads, parking areas, etc. These drawings indicated that the proposed structure would be two stories high with a floor area dimension of 61’0″ x 87’0″, which dimension is the same as revealed to the Prophet Joseph as the size of the complex buildings. Entrance to the Bureau would be from Walnut Street, and it would set back 171’0″ from the street.
The President inquired further as to the basic use of the building. I told him that it would be used exclusively as a Bureau of Information and that within the walls of this structure the concentrated message could deal with the laying of the foundation of God’s work here in the latter days, at the very place where the Church became involved in the early commandments of the Lord in this purpose, that it would stand as place of testimony and record unto the world, including those of the R.L.D.S. (D & C 58:7)
Urgent Need to Erect Building on Property
I called to the President’s attention that because our property on the ‘temple land’ had nothing on it, it was almost constantly being sought after by educational and other civic agencies for building purposes. It has therefore upon occasion been threatened with condemnation procedures to acquire it. I mentioned the experience with the Van Brunt Senior High School which might have been built upon our temple land property through condemnation procedures had not the Church made rather a sizable contribution ($50,000.00) which enabled the School Board to erect the building on Truman Avenue. But the condition of possible condemnation still exists. A recent inquiry was made regarding land for a civic Boys’ Club. I mentioned to the President that the land in the past had been used as a circus ground, a football practice field, or for any civic requirement, it being regarded as open land, and that the Church had constantly lost stature in the area, for not doing something with it. In other words, they keep saying, ‘If you don’t intend to use it, then let us have it’. The R.L.D.S. have particularly used these ideas to their own advantage.
I mentioned to the President that it had been reported to us that in 1965 two thousand Mormons became members of the R.L.D.S. – over 100 of these in Salt Lake City where they recently dedicated a chapel and are now building another. (Mention also had been made to the President of their activity at the Utah State Fair in 1966.)
The President seemed very surprised of these things, saying ‘I had no idea of this’.
Three Reasons For the Need of The Proposed Building
I expressed the feeling to the President that I thought there were three good
reasons why we should undertake to erect the proposed structures:
1. The erection of a building on our temple land there would eliminate any possibility of condemnation procedures that may otherwise develop.
2. It would establish the Church in better image to the world and the R.L.D.S. membership in an area most vital to the restoration of the Gospel.
3. That a Bureau of Information there, together with our newly acquired Radio Broadcasting facilities in Kansas City, could be developed into a great center of tourist attraction.
The President at this point rather firmly expressed himself that we ought not lose control of any of that land, and asked that we again go over our proposal to him. This we did step by step. As mentioned before, the President was very intent about the whole matter and wanted to have it all clear in his mind.
Brother Garff stated that it looked to him that the decision that must be made at this time was whether the Church intended to go forward or to give up and relinquish our place.
I commented that as the true Church it would be unthinkable to give up our place, and the President gave affirmation to this.
Approximate Costs
In reply to the President’s question, Brother Garff stated that some quick figures had been arrived at and that for the building proper, roadway, parking, and landscaping, it would cost in the neighborhood of one-half million dollars, but that a further detailed check would be needed.
A Building To Put the Church In Good Light
Brother Getzer made the comment that he felt that any building we erected at this particular place, while it would not compete in size with the R.L.D.S. Auditorium, about one-half block to the west, it ought to be commensurate for the purpose, and be such as to put the Church in a good light. The President concurred in this.
President McKay Recalls Visit to Independence
The President very thoughtfully spoke of his visit to Missouri last June, accompanied by President Joseph Fielding Smith, and of our stop by the very land at Independence which we had been discussing. He recalled how I had explained to him the lay of the land, and of his impression of the beauty of that part of the ‘temple land’ owned by our Church, and how much he appreciated and enjoyed our visit there, and at Liberty, Far West, and Adam-ondi-Ahman.
The President Gives Approval
Finally, with a thoughtful concern, the President made his decision, and said ‘alright, let’s go ahead with it’.
Brother Garff said, ‘Alright President, we’ll go ahead, but we will need to get the money to do it. Perhaps all that will be needed for now will be the appropriation for the architectural fees, and the appropriation for the building could be included in the next budget year beginning September 1, 1967.’ The President said this was fine, but to go ahead.
A Joyous Time
It is not always possible to evaluate at the time the significance of an occasion, this may be one of those times. At any rate, for the full hour of discussion of this important matter with President McKay there was an unmistakable feeling of joy and satisfaction. A jovial and happy, yet deeply concerned atmosphere prevailed.
The President was very bright and alert, asking many questions. I felt, as did Brothers Garff and Fetzer the process of his clear thinking as he reached his decision, not hurriedly, but slowly and with deep concern. It was truly an inspiration to witness this.
We all felt good about the decision he had made. To me it was another step in fulfilling of the Lord’s work in the consecrated and dedicated land of Jackson County, Missouri, with many great developments to follow.
Brother Fetzer told of President McKay passing his home recently in an automobile and how this alone had brought happiness to their home and family. This brought a pleasing smile to the face of the President.
Brother Garff told the President not to be concerned about the cost of the Bureau on the temple land for the Building Committee had now turned back to the Church 16 million dollars and he showed the President an auditors statement to this effect. The President was very pleased with this report saying ‘This is wonderful’. Brother Garff also said that the Carthage Bureau was costing the Church more than the one I had proposed for Independence, Missouri.
As the President said good-bye, he was very happy and seemed lifted-up. He said to me as I shook hands expressing my own happiness of this occasion, ‘I appreciate the great work you are doing and of the interest you are taking in these matters.'”
Wed., 15 Mar. 1967:
“10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Independence, Missouri – Bureau of Information
Brother Alvin R. Dyer came in at my request, and presented a report of the meeting we held with Mark B. Garff and Emil Fetzer on the erecting of a Bureau of Information at Independence, Missouri.
Elder Dyer said that he had talked with Mark E. Petersen, Chairman of the Bureaus Committee, who said that he would take the matter of appropriations for the building to the Expenditures Committee. I told Brother Dyer that I am in favor of going ahead with the Bureau of Independence.
Deseret Management Corporation
Brother Dyer presented a type-written report on his evaluation of the new Deseret Management Corporation. This was also done at my request. (See following report which was carefully prepared by Elder Dyer, and which I have read with interest and deep concern.)
Wednesday, March 15, 1967
Visit With President David O. McKay
By Alvin R. Dyer
On Wednesday morning, March 15, 1967, by request, I again met with President McKay at his Hotel Utah apartment. I was with him for approximately one hour. He seemed to feel quite well and said that he was happy to see me.
Report of Meeting Held With the President on March 10, 1967
As I had been requested, I had prepared a report of my meeting with President McKay, in company with Mark B. Garff and Emil Fetzer. This report was briefly reviewed with the President, and he again affirmed the fact that we should go ahead with the Bureau of Information project at Independence, Missouri, on our temple land property. I reported further that I had discussed his approval with Elder Mark E. Petersen, the Chairman of the Bureaus Committee, who stated that in light of the President’s approval, he would process the matter through channels to the Expenditures Committee for an appropriation for architectural fees as soon as I could get him the amount needed. The President said that this would be fine, and was pleased that we were going ahead with it.
A Resume Report on The D.M.C.
I had prepared, as requested by the President, a type-written report on my evaluation of the new corporation. The President asked me to read it. This I did, stopping throughout as the President asked various questions. The report told of my interest in the D.M.C., and of the assignment given by the President to look into it with regard to Priesthood Law and of how certain questionable areas could be brought into harmony with Priesthood Law.
President McKay then took the report into his own hands, reading several pages as I sat silently watching him. At one particular point he read the following statement aloud: (Page 2)
‘Such by-passing of the President of the Church called to mind experiences or incidents in Church history wherein attempts were made to by-pass authority of the Prophet Joseph Smith. (See D&C Sections 28, 85, and 112.) All this emphasized to me the law of the Priesthood concerning the one appointed to preside over all matters in the Church whether of a spiritual or temporal nature, and the remarks of the Prophet at Kirtland on a very important occasion when he said ‘Where I am not, there is no First Presidency.’
The President then remarked, ‘This is a great principle’.
I asked the President if he thought that my report on the D.M.C. should be shown to Brother Benson or anyone else, and his answer was ‘no’.
The President had another meeting at this point. I had been there about an hour when he said, ‘This discussion is to be continued’. We shook hands and he said how happy he was to see me and that I was to return.
Wednesday, March 15, 1967
A Report of My Interest in the D.M.C. and of an Assignment Given by President McKay to Evaluate the Structure of Its Organization and Purpose
On January 28, 1967, while traveling to Pocatello by plane to attend a stake conference, having purchased a Salt Lake Tribune before boarding; I read therein the announcement made by President N. Eldon Tanner of the First Presidency of the forming of a holding corporation of the Church, to be known as the Deseret Management Corporation which would bring under one head a number of Church commercial institutions, or corporations for control and management. (And also, as I learned later, to improve the income tax position of the Church by such a move.)
The thought passed through my mind at the time as to why an announcement of such magnitude affecting Church property would be made by a counselor in the Presidency and not by the President himself, but I hastily concluded that no doubt President McKay had asked that it be announced this way.
Sometime later, in fact on February 1, 1967, President McKay had asked that I visit with him, in response to a request I had made for an interview to discuss certain inquiries that had been made to President Keysor of the Central States Mission by a civic group regarding the obtaining of some of our land in Independence, Missouri, and also of a request by a party in Hillsdale, Illinois, to purchase 10 walnut trees from our recently acquired property at Adam-ondi-Aham.
During the course of this visit with President McKay, at which Clare Middlemiss, his personal secretary was present, I happened to mention, just as a matter of conversation, that I had read the announcement of the organizing of the D.M.C. The President asked me where I had read it and who made the announcement. I then related the details of the announcement, and that President Tanner had made it. I got the impression, for what reasons I did not know at the time, that the President was not pleased with this announcement.
Having once been a small business man, but had retired from it many years ago to serve in the Church, and the combination of the announcement and President McKay’s apparent feeling about the D.M.C., I made some inquiries about it; most things about it seemed to be good, providing the Church would not run into any trust problems with the government.
Other things about it seemed not good, from a priesthood law standpoint, because of the power being placed in the hands of those not of the President of the Church, or the Quorum of the Twelve. Such by-passing of the President of the Church called to my mind experiences or incidents in Church history wherein attempts were made to by-pass the authority of the Prophet Joseph Smith. (See D & C Sections 28, 85, and 112). All this emphasized to me the law of the Priesthood concerning the one appointed to preside over all matters in the Church whether of a spiritual or temporal nature, and of the remarks of the Prophet at Kirtland on a very important occasion when he said, ‘Where I am not, there is no First Presidency.’
A short while later, while talking to Clare Middlemiss regarding the need to see President McKay to report on a matter he had asked me to look into, I mentioned to her the revelations that placed the President of the Church in a very unique position in presiding over the Priesthood and the Church in all affairs of the Church. Clare Middlemiss then told me that President McKay was quite concerned about this new corporation and suggested that when I saw the President again, would I refer to the revelations which I had mentioned to her.
I believe the next time I saw President McKay after that was upon February 16, 1967, and though we discussed other matters (see record of these minutes), I did express myself as to how I felt about the position which he held and that no one within the Church, its leaders or members, ought ever to lift themselves above or by-pass the one appointed to preside in the Church.
We discussed the revelations referred to in the foregoing, in addition the revelation on Priesthood given to the Prophet in Liberty Jail was discussed and I read parts of it, particularly verses 34 and 36 and 39 of Section 121. Some of this the President quoted himself verbatim stating that there were some in the Church leadership today who fit the description of verse 39.
Before leaving the President that day he asked me to look into further the structure of organization and purpose of the D.M.C. (Comment: I have learned in my Church experience that assignments are not always of the pleasant variety, but not to do your best when assigned to a responsibility by those who preside over you, has sincerely never been a part of my nature.)
At the President’s request, I obtained copies of the Articles of Incorporation and the By-Laws of D.M.C. and endeavored to evaluate the structure to the best of my ability. Eventually I found myself with a list of questions that I either had to have dismissed or confirmed. Frankly, at first I did not know who to go to for legal counsel. I certainly did not want to put anyone in jeopardy by submitting my questions to them. And then too, I needed someone whom I thought knew Priesthood law as well as State and Federal law. That person, I finally decided, was my cousin Robert Dyer who is now associated with the firm of Kirton and Bettilyon, who I am given to understand are handling certain legal matters for the Church.
The reasons I decided to ask Robert Dyer to answer my questions regarding D.M.C., is as follows: First, I felt I could trust him, and he could trust me, and surely I did not want anyone embarrassed if this all proved needless. Robert also was my own personal business lawyer up until I sold my business to serve in the Church. Secondly, I felt from gospel discussions we had had that he understood Priesthood law. And, thirdly, Robert has been doing legal work for the Church for many, many years, and therefore has the experience.
The answering of my questions concerning D.M.C. proved that most were easily explained, but several, and two in particular, were confirmed. These two questions covered the following conditions as described in the By-Laws which I felt are wrong and should be amended. Not, strictly from a legal angle, but from a legal angle into which has been incorporated the laws of Priesthood authority vested in the President of the High Priesthood described legally as ‘The Corporation of the President Sole’.
Before referring to these two areas, let me acknowledge that the lease of the land governs men and their affairs, and in the case of the Corporation Sole is binding. The law of the Priesthood also governs man, with relation to his affairs as they relate to the Lord and to the extent they are compatible with the law of the land they may also apply to his affairs. Where an inconsistency arises, the law of the land is paramount. I do not see a need for inconsistency in the D.M.C. – both may apply in this case.
It is to be noted further that Amendment IV of the Articles of Incorporation of the President of the Church provides for successive appointment in business matters only in case of removal, resignation, or death, and this to the President of the Quorum of the Twelve or one whom they would appoint. There is no provision in these articles for the diversion of authority in commercial matters when the President is ill or otherwise incapacitated so as not to be able to act. Nor is there any time period involved or who is to adjudge a condition of inability to act. (If the law of the Priesthood were followed here, the power to act in all legal and commercial matters would revert to the Quorum of the Twelve, who as a unanimous body would determine the need.)
But this diversion of power and authority to act, in the event of the President of the Boards inability to act in the D.M.C. is based upon a State law governing such matters, and not the law of the Priesthood. 16-7-8 of the State Statute does not make it mandatory to the Corporation Sole to appoint an agent or agents, if he does the selection is his own choice and may be revoked at will. He also, in selecting an agent to act in his behalf, could follow the Priesthood law and select the Quorum of the Twelve.
As it now stands, the agents appointed are his counselors. If President McKay is incapacitated, the appointed agents of D.M.C. take over the authority, but if the spirit and intent of Priesthood law were followed, this could be done only with the unanimous approval of the Quorum of the Twelve.
In the light of the above, and following the law of the Priesthood, which would be compatible in every way with the laws of the land concerning the D.M.C., it is suggested that the following two areas be given consideration and appropriate amendments to the By-Laws made.
Section 3.06: Quorum
This article of the By-Laws states that ‘Six directors shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. The majority of such a quorum is four members. There are four members on the Board at present who are not of the First Presidency or the Quorum of the Twelve. If they so acted as the majority of a quorum of six, their vote to bind the corporation could under such circumstance by-pass the Quorum of the Twelve, or if one of the agents and three directors in this category voted together, it would by-pass the Quorum of the Twelve representation on the Board.
It is to be noted that article 3.04 permits two directors to call a special meeting. These may be those other than the President or Vice Presidents. Section 3.05: re: Notice of any special meeting is by mail and telegrams, these sent to directors who are members of the Quorum of the Twelve, because of their traveling schedules may never reach them in time for the meeting.
Section 4.01 The Executive Officers of the Corporation are the President and first and second Vice Presidents. In the Articles of Incorporation of D.M.C. these are stated to be David O. McKay, Hugh B. Brown, and N. Eldon Tanner as first and second Vice Presidents. Section 4.02 provides for a continuity of the Executive Officers who are to be chosen by the Board of Directors, usually at the first annual meeting of the year. It is stipulated that these officers must be chosen from among the Board of Directors. It also states that these officers may be chosen at any regular or special meeting of the Board of Directors.
Comment:
There are two things concerning the above that appear not to be in harmony with Priesthood law. First, the conditions of a Quorum and the possibility of four members of the Board wielding the power of vote. And secondly, this section does not provide that the President of the Executive Officers shall always be the President of the Church. It would be possible therefore, whether it would ever be exercized or not, for the President of the Church to be by-passed. It is true that the D.M.C. is prepared and structured similar to other business corporations and the powers of the officers are established consistent therewith. Appointment of officers by a Board of Directors is customary in a commercial corporation. But in line with Priesthood law, which can be made compatible with the laws of the land, the control of Corporations (commercial) should be in full recognition of, and by and through the Corporation of the President, wherein those of the Quorum of the Twelve (who are the appointing body of the President of the Church) or such other Church members in good standing as the Corporation of the President should so determine. The ultimate control and appointment should be through the Corporation of the President.
It must be said that there is nothing to prevent, however, by the Articles of the D.M.C. or By-Laws that the President and Executive officer shall be 1) the President of the Church, and 2) in case of death, resignation, or removal, the President of the Quorum of the Twelve or member of the Quorum named by them. As provided in the Articles of Incorporation of the Corporation of the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but neither to the Articles and By-Laws of D.M.C. provide that such appointment in line with Priesthood law shall be so.
Section 4:07. Designates the powers of the President which powers are subject to and approval of the Board (see a, d, e, and f). If the President were other than the President of the Church, these procedures for a commercial corporation would be proper and lawful, but when the President of the Church holds the position as President, and this should always be the case, this procedure would not be in accordance with Priesthood law.
Directors
Article VII of the Incorporation of D.M.C. refers to the Board of Directors consisting of not less than eleven, as at present, nor more than twenty. Conspicuous on the Board is President David O. McKay. Section 3.08 of the By-Laws dealing with vacancies by reason of death, resignation, or otherwise does not stipulate that if such vacancy would affect the President of the Church, that his replacement shall always be his successor of Priesthood Office in the Church. The By-Law does not preclude that it could be so, but it does not cover it explicitly, therefore the place of the President of the Church at the top of the Board of Directors, under certain conditions as approved by the By-Laws could be by-passed.
Procedure to Adjust
Article X of the By-Laws provides for amendments thereto in accordance with stipulated conditions.
16-7-8 of the Statutes of the State governing provides authority to establish agency of the Corporation Sole. The President is not required to appoint an agent or agents. If he does, the selection is of his own choice and may be revoked at will. The power is in the Corporation Sole – he has a free hand to act.
Meeting with President McKay
On March 8, 1967, I was asked by President McKay to meet with him, which I did at his apartment office at the Hotel Utah. Upon this occasion I reported to him essentially what has been herein outlined as to my evaluation of D.M.C., in relation to Priesthood law. The President asked that certified copies of the (A) Articles of Incorporation of the President of the Church, (B) Articles of Incorporation of D.M.C., and (C) the By-Laws of D.M.C. be obtained and that these together with my evaluation, prepared in written form be submitted to him.
The President expressed himself at our meeting that any corporation or agency established by the Church ought to be in harmony with the Priesthood.
A discussion ensued at our meeting that if the President became incapacitated because of illness or other reasons, that according to Priesthood law that power and authority which he held, in all matters pertaining to the Church, should return to the Quorum of the Twelve, the Quorum next in authority to the Quorum of the First Presidency, who as a unanimous Quorum would adjudge beforehand the inability of the President to act.
That priesthood law, did not provide for that authority to be vested in his counselors. We discussed together the statement of the Prophet Joseph Smith made at a special meeting of reconciliation with the Quorum of the Twelve at Kirtland, Ohio, that in matters of Church policy to them, and ostensibly through them to the Church, that where he, the Prophet Joseph Smith, ‘was not, there was no Presidency to the Quorum of the Twelve.
In following this thought, where President McKay is not and not able to act, there is no Presidency, and consequently in accordance with this principle, the authority and power to act in all cases of Church business, or in spiritual matters reverts to the Quorum of the Twelve. It would appear that such procedure in the D.M.C. has been ignored.
President McKay again stated that the principles and laws of the priesthood should always be adhered to and reiterated that the preparation, as stated in the foregoing, should be made at once and placed in his hands.
I said to the President that I felt that perhaps my concern was improper, and that if I had done wrong in bringing these things to him, I would put the whole thing out of my mind. His positive answer was, ‘No, you have done right, and I have asked you to do it.’
When I left the President at this time he thanked me, holding to my hand for quite a little while. He said he appreciated that time I had taken in the matter, and the thought that had been given to it, and again told me not to feel that I had done anything out of order. He again asked that all this be written up, which I have done in accordance with his wishes.
Wednesday, March 15, 1967
Where I Am Not, There Is No First Presidency Over The Twelve
Forenote:
When the revelation contained in Section 107 was given (March, 1835) there were two ‘standing High Councils’ of the Church, one in Kirtland, Ohio, (February 7, 1834) and one in Clay County, Missouri, (July 3, 1834). The High Council in Kirtland was presided over by Joseph Smith and his counselors. At that time these were the only High Councils in existence. They were peculiar in themselves concerning the authority of the same, we have this: ‘The Standing High Councils, at the stakes of Zion, form a quorum equal in authority in the affairs of the Church, in all their decisions, to the quorum of the presidency, or to the traveling High Council’ (Quorum of the Twelve)
D & C 107:36; 124:134, 135, 137; J of D. Vol. XIX, p. 241; D & C Commentary, P. 702, 703.
Special Council Meeting With The Twelve
From the Prophet’s journal record, we find the following:
Saturday, January 16, 1836 (Kirtland, Ohio)
‘By request I met with the Council of the Twelve in company with my counselors, Frederick G. Williams, and Sydney Rigdon.’
The purpose of the meeting was to bring about a reconciliation of the First Presidency and the Twelve. Thomas B. Marsh, the president of the Twelve, asked that each member of the Quorum be given the privilege to speak without interruption, which was granted. Thomas B. Marsh spoke first, and the others followed. The hurt feelings of the Quorum were made known concerning:
1. A certain letter which they received from the Presidency of the High Council in Kirtland, concerning certain neglects of the Quorum of the Twelve.
2. Reference was made to the Quorum of Twelve being placed below the Standing High Councils of Kirtland and Zion.
3. That Hyrum Smith and Oliver Cowdery had made certain derogatory remarks about the Quorum and certain members therein.
Note: The letter of the Presidency of the Kirtland High Council had been prompted by a letter which they had received from a Dr. William A. Cowdery, with certain accusations that the Twelve had failed in their duty, in representing the Church in Freedom, Cattaraugus County, New York, which he later acknowledged to have been written in haste, and without due consideration, expressing regrets for the trouble caused.
Each member of the Quorum of the Twelve were heard patiently, their remarks being made in a forcible and explicit manner, yet cool and deliberate, suggesting that the presidency had lost confidence in them. The Prophet before answering the complaints, obtained from the Quorum by unanimous vote, that they were determined to persevere in the work of the Lord, and received assurance that the presidency could satisfy them.
The prophet then acknowledged that the language of the letter might have been too harsh, and asked forgiveness for this, but he also cited a certain letter to them written for the Quorum by Wm. E. McLellin, a member which was also harsh, but that he was willing to set one against the other. He also stated that he did not condone the remarks of Oliver Cowdery.
The President then explained why in the particular arrangement in assembly, in the Kirtland Temple on January 15, 1836, the High Council of Kirtland was placed next to the Presidency which was because of the business of the meeting relating to that body (i.e. the saints in Kirtland), but the president explained that this did not place the Standing High Council of Kirtland above the Quorum of the Twelve in matters of the Church in general, for said he:
‘The Twelve are not subject to any other than the first presidency’ – this meaning the Prophet Joseph Smith and his counselors Sydney Rigdon and Frederick G. Williams. But said he further: ‘And where I am not, there is no First Presidency over the Twelve.’
Comment:
It is apparent from this experience that the following is learned:
1. That additional revelation from the Lord was needed to clarify the proper alignment of the Standing High Councils. Hence, as we have it today in the Church, there is a standing High Council, or simply a High Council for each stake of the Church. (J of D, Vol. XIX, p. 241). The powers and position of the two Standing High Councils of Kirtland and Zion have never since then been duplicated. As stated, they were peculiar unto themselves.
2. That the Prophet Joseph constantly strove for peace and harmony among the brethren and as upon the occasion referred to humbly sought their forgiveness even in a situation, which later developments proved was largely the fault of the Quorum of the Twelve (D & C Section 112) and the rebelliousness of some of its number against the Prophet, many of whom were excommunicated.
3. The Prophet also explained that the Twelve were subject only to the First Presidency, and that the First Presidency was constituted only when he was present.
This latter statement points up the fact that in the law of Priesthood succession that the appointment is given to one to preside. (D & C 107:65-67, 91). The calling of counselors to the one appointed is to assist him in administrative matters, and when acting directly for him, they speak with authority (D & C 107:22, 79), but where he is not, and upon matters which he has not personally directed, there is no presidency.
Misunderstanding and Rebelliousness
The some-time misunderstanding, and other-time rebelliousness, of the Prophet’s counselors, and the Quorum of the Twelve, found the Lord giving commandments and direction of the position in Priesthood authority of the ‘one’ appointed to preside. The following refer to such instances of revelation:
1. ‘But, behold, verily, verily, I say unto thee, no one shall be appointed to receive commandments and revelations in this church excepting my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., for he receiveth them even as Moses.
‘And thou shalt be obedient unto the things which I shall give unto him, even as Aaron, to declare faithfully the commandments and the revelations, with power and authority unto the church.
‘And if thou art led at any time by the Comforter to speak or teach, or at all times by the way of commandment unto the church, thou mayest do it.
‘But thou shalt not write by way of commandment, but by wisdom;
‘And thou shalt not command him who is at thy head, and at the head of the church;
‘For I have given him the keys of the mysteries, and the revelations which are sealed, unto I shall appoint unto them another in his stead.’
(D&C 28:2-7)
2. ‘While that man, who was called of God and appointed, that putteth forth his hand to steady the ark of God, shall fall by the shaft of death, like as a tree that is smitten by the vivid shaft of lightning.
‘And all they who are not found written in the book of remembrance shall find none inheritance in that day, but they shall be cut asunder, and their portion shall be appointed them among unbelievers, where are wailing and gnashing of teeth.
‘These things I say not of myself: therefore, as the Lord speaketh, he will also fulfill.
‘And they who are of the High Priesthood, whose names are not found written in the book of the law, or that are found to have apostatized, or to have been cut off from the church, as well as the lesser priesthood, or the members, in that day shall not find an inheritance among the saints of the Most High;’
(D&C 85:8-11)
3. ‘Now, I say unto you, and what I say unto you, I say unto all the Twelve: Arise and gird up your loins, take up your cross, follow me, and feed my sheep.
‘Exalt not yourselves; rebel not against my servant Joseph; for verily I say unto you, I am with him, and my hand shall be over him; and the keys which I have given unto him, and also to youward, shall not be taken from him till I come.’
(D&C 112:14, 15)
It is to be noted that in the revelation contained in Section 112 to the Quorum of the Twelve that verse 30, which is as follows:
‘For unto you, the Twelve, and those, the First Presidency, who are appointed with you to be your counselors and your leaders, is the power of this priesthood given, for the last days and for the last time, in the which is the dispensation of the fulness of times.’
should be interpreted in the light of the prophets statement to the Quorum of the Twelve, in the special meeting of reconciliation held in Kirtland, as covered in the foregoing, for ‘where I am not, there is no First Presidency over the Twelve.’
Fate of Counselors and Quorum of Twelve Members
The Counselors to the Prophet Joseph Smith at the period of time referred to in the foregoing were:
Oliver Cowdery – Excommunicated, but was rebaptized
Sydney Rigdon – Lost interest and returned to Pennsylvania
Frederick G. Williams – Excommunicated
The Quorum of the Twelve
1. Lyman E. Johnson – Excommunicated
2. Brigham Young – Faithful to the end
3. Heber C. Kimball – Faithful to the end
4. Orson Hyde – Saved from excommunication by repentance
5. David W. Patten – Died in the faith, battle of Crooked River
6. Luke S. Johnson – Excommunicated
7. William E. McLellin – Excommunicated
8. John F. Boynten – Excommunicated
9. Orson Pratt – Faithful to the end
10. William Smith – Excommunicated
11. Thomas B. Marsh – Excommunicated
12. Parley P. Pratt – Faithful to the end.
Wed., 29 Mar. 1967:
“In Huntsville
11:40 a.m.
Brother and Sister Alvin R. Dyer, and my secretary Clare, came up to Huntsville at my request.
Brother Dyer made a brief report on Independence, and the proposed new building at that place.
Clare brought up the matter of the proposal of the Nauvoo Corporation to purchase a 14-unit motel in Nauvoo for $60,000, and Brother Reiser’s desire to see me about it. This matter was presented by President Brown at a meeting of the First Presidency held March 24, 1967. In the presence of Elder Dyer, I very strongly expressed my feelings that we should not spend any more money in Nauvoo, saying, ‘We are not going to do it, and I shall tell Brother Reiser next week when I come to Salt Lake.’
Later, President Brown presented the matter of the purchase of the motel again, stating that liquor interests are after the property, and that Willard Marriott, David Kennedy, and other members of the Nauvoo Corporation are very much in favor of the purchase, and persuaded me that it would be wrong for the Church not to acquire this property.
Brother Dyer then left the office there in Huntsville, and Clare presented the list of speakers for the Pre-Conference meeting of all the General Authorities to be held tomorrow in the Salt Lake Temple, and also a list of the Brethren to be called on to speak at the Temple meeting. She left these lists with me in a folder, and asked the nurse to see that they were given to me as I left for the meeting tomorrow morning.
I then joined Brother and Sister Dyer who were in the living room talking to Sister McKay. Brother Dyer said that his was the first time he had been to Huntsville, and that the drive through Ogden Canyon was beautiful, although they had traveled up there in a blinding snowstorm. The roads were very slick, and in certain places the visibility was poor. Clare said that in all the years she had worked for me she had never been in the old home, and in fact had been to Huntsville only once before in all that time. While there she walked around the old home with Brother and Sister Dyer, and went out to the field to see if they could get Sonny Boy to come to the fence so that they could feed him some sugar. However, he didn’t answer their call, although some of the other horses did come up to the fence. They enjoyed the cold, invigorating air of Huntsville.”
Thurs., 30 Mar. 1967:
“April 1, 1967
Report by Alvin R. Dyer, Assistant to the Twelve
My recollection of the things spoken of by President McKay in the pre-conference temple meeting of the First Presidency, Quorum of the Twelve, and all other General Authorities, except Thorpe B. Isaacson, Harold B. Lee, and S. Dilworth Young; held on Thursday, March 30, 1967, at 9:00 a.m. continuing until 1:30 p.m.
President McKay presided and conducted the meeting. In his opening remarks, he seemed troubled and kept putting his head back on his seat as though he was searching for what to say. He spoke for the most part in a subdued voice, but when his speaking was over as he directed the rest of the meeting his voice was stronger. In his remarks it was easy to observe that he was speaking with great concern, and though I could not distinguish every word, I feel that I heard sufficient to get the trend of his thoughts. The following to the best of my knowledge, represents the vital matters he spoke of:
1. That Jesus Christ, the Son of God and our Redeemer, is at the head of the Church. ‘He is our Head’, said the President. He pointed out further that He (that is, the Lord) watched over and was concerned about the Church.
2. He spoke of the General Authorities there present who formed a great group that the Lord was over this group, and looked to it to further His work.
3. He spoke of the authority and power of the Priesthood that was vested in this group and in the Church, and that this priesthood was to be magnified to accomplish God’s work.
4. The President then spoke of the authority vested in the First Presidency of the Church and raising his voice, he then said what sounded like to me, to emphasize, his place as the President and presiding authority, and that by virtue and power of his office and calling should be respected in that position. He then again spoke of his office and calling, by virtue of which he encouraged the General Authorities to go forward in magnifying the Priesthood in pursuing their callings that the work of the Lord could go forward as never before.
5. President McKay spoke of the conference of the Church at hand, and called upon the brethren, whom he called a great group, as never before to represent the Lord in what they would say at the conference.
The above notes, written by request of Clare Middlemiss, secretary, was read and approved by President McKay April 4, 1967.
Approved David O. McKay”
Fri., 14 Apr. 1967:
“11:00 – 11:45 a.m.
By appointment met Brother Alvin R. Dyer, and discussed the following matters with him:
1) Bureau of Information at Independence, Missouri – question of whether or not our land at that place will come under condemnation. I read the letters and memos involved in this situation, and stated that I completely approve the project, and authorized that the letter be written (for my signature) authorizing the erection of a Bureau of Information at Independence on the ‘Temple Land’.
Fri., 14 Apr. 1967:
Friday, April 14, 1967
Minutes of Meeting with President David O. McKay, Friday, April 14, 1967, by Elder Alvin R. Dyer, Assistant to the Twelve.
At about 10:45 a.m. on April 14, 1967, I met with President David O. McKay by appointment. Clare Middlemiss, his personal secretary, was present.
Several matters were discussed with him as follows:
1) On March 23, 1967, in the meeting of the Quorum of the Twelve with the First Presidency, the proposed project of the erection of a Bureau of Information on Church ‘Temple Land’ property at Independence, Missouri, which had previously been approved by President McKay on March 10, 1967, in the presence of Alvin R. Dyer, Mark B. Garff, and Emil Fetzer, at which time three reasons were discussed as for the need of such bureau:
a) To lessen the chance of possible condemnation of the property
b) To establish a better image of the Church to the RLDS and the world by signifying Church interest in this, the revealed, consecrated, and inheritance land.
c) To be in a position, with radio facilities having been obtained in Kansas City, to tell of the message of the Church from that point, the center place of Zion.
Following the meeting, I was advised by Elder Mark E. Petersen that the Quorum and the First Presidency were concerned about condemnation procedures and had therefore authorized Wilford W. Kirton, Jr., legal counsel for the Church, to pursue the matter. This he did in collaboration with Kenneth L. Midgley, a Kansas City attorney who is on the High Council of the Kansas City Stake.
Their report, sent by letter and memo to Mark E. Petersen, copies of which Elder Petersen sent to me with his letter dated April 10, 1967, confirmed the fact that the property could be condemned under certain circumstances, which if such were to be invoked at all by those in position to do so, would more likely happen if the property was not improved. (See second paragraph, Kirton memo, and second paragraph of Midgley letter.)
Upon receiving copies of this report, and the signification in Elder Petersen’s letter that ‘we will have to wait further instructions from the First Presidency’, I prepared an analysis of the attorney’s report, and took the same to Elder Petersen and discussed the matter with him (a copy of that analysis is attached to these minutes), this was on April 11, 1967. I stated to Elder Petersen that I knew that improvements placed upon vacant property would not always prevent condemnation of the same, but that under normal circumstances would tend to prevent it. That, in the case of our ‘Temple Land’ property, only a confined project such as a school or civic building would ever be considered as a cause to condemn and that a half-million dollar bureau, together with the land value, would be a determining factor to those who would condemn since such parties would have to absorb costs. I also referred to the two other reasons for the bureau, which seemed to escape the discussions of the brethren.
I then pointed out to Brother Petersen that by appointment of the President, it was my obligation to pursue the matter and, therefore, what was the next step to be taken. He then said that if a letter could be obtained from President McKay, he would include the costs of the project in his budget request, which he would have to prepare before April 28, 1967, since thereafter he would be gone for six weeks, which extended beyond the deadline of May 31, 1967, for budget submittal for 1967-68.
I asked Brother Petersen how he personally felt about a bureau at Independence. He said he felt all right about it, but felt that for now he was more concerned about getting needed funds for the Temple bureaus at Hawaii and Mesa. I said why could not the funds be obtained for all three. His answer was that it was a matter of money, and he didn’t know whether money would be available for all three bureaus. I mentioned that if funds could be diverted from Nauvoo, it could be done. His answer was quite emphatic, ‘I would unquestionably rather see the money spent at Independence, than at Nauvoo.’
I then asked Elder Petersen if he thought I ought to talk to Brother Tanner about the matter of the bureau at Independence. He said perhaps so, with President McKay present. My answer to this was, as we thought about the matter together, that President McKay had asked me personally to pursue the matter and that to keep faith with the President I should go directly to him and report the matter and ask for the letter which Elder Petersen stated he would need to ask for the funds. Elder Petersen then said perhaps that would be best.
This background of the visit with President McKay is given so as to make these minutes coherent.
President McKay listened to my report, read the letters and memos involved, and stated that it would not be necessary to discuss the matter with President Tanner, that he completely approved the project and authorized that the letter requested by Brother Petersen be prepared for his signature. (This was done and placed into his hands the following Monday, April 17, 1967.)
2) Clare Middlemiss, Retirement of. President McKay some time ago requested that I have prepared by legal counsel a statement to the Church Retirement Committee in behalf of Clare Middlemiss, his long-time secretary, that upon the occasion of his death that the option of retirement be granted her and that her retirement pay to be in the full amount of her present salary with certain other medical and drug benefits.
This document was prepared in triplicate by Robert Dyer, attorney, and was given to the President upon this occasion. He stated that this was the way he wanted it, and signed all three copies in my presence.
3) Nauvoo Restoration, Purchase of Motel
While I was with the President and with his permission, remained to discuss with him a letter which had been prepared for the purchase of a motel at Nauvoo, Illinois, for $60,000, which letter to LeRoy Kimball had already been signed by Presidents Tanner and Smith.
The President seemed reticent about signing the letter. He said to me, ‘What are we doing in Nauvoo anyway?’ I told him that I did not see why the Church should be obligated to finance and maintain the Nauvoo Restoration project, that according to my understanding the costs were mounting higher and higher and the Church was footing the bill. I remarked to the President that the restoration of certain homes at Nauvoo by family descendants of the early owners was understandable, providing they would arrange for the bulk of the money, but that the project was getting too big and costing too much for the possible advantage that would accrue to the Church, that I objected to it for several reasons.
a) That the project of a mammoth bureau of information at Nauvoo and the money involved could not be compared with bureaus at other places, where funds were needed now, such as Independence, Hawaii, Mesa, Far West, Anadarko, and later Adam-ondi-Ahman.
b) That the restoration of Nauvoo will help the RLDS Church more than ours. They own the Mansion House, the burial ground of Joseph, Hyrum, and Emma Smith, and much of what we might say at this place would be off-set by the facts stated above.
c) The revelations and statements of the Prophets Joseph Smith, Brigham Young and others signify no future of the church at that place, such as at Independence, Far West, Adam-ondi-Ahman, and even Kirtland.
d) That the time had come to finalize what is being done there and stop the outflow of Church funds to further expand it.
At this point I asked the President if he would excuse me as I had an appointment to fill at our Institute of Religion on the Weber College campus to meet with 800 Institute students. The President asked me to convey his love and best wishes to these young people. Sister Dyer was with me when 45 minutes later we met with this inspiring congregation of Weber College youth during the noon hour. They were very pleased and happy to receive the President’s greetings.
Minutes prepared by Alvin R. Dyer
Assistant to the Twelve.
Friday, April 14, 1967
Re: Independence, Missouri Bureau of Information
April 11, 1967
Elder Mark E. Petersen
Building
Dear Brother Petersen:
I have your letter of April 10, 1967, together with copies of letters and memos from Wilford W. Kirton, Jr.. and Kenneth L. Midgley concerning condemnation phases of our ‘temple land’ property in Independence, Missouri.
It has always been my understanding, according to law, that private property, whether improved or not improved, is subject to condemnation procedures by the State and Federal Government under certain conditions. However, it has also been my understanding, that follows customary practices, that well established improved property would much less likely be considered for condemnation than completely under-improved property; such as for confined structures (schools, boys’ clubs, and so forth). The last paragraph of the memo from Wilford W. Kirton, Jr., which states the following, seems to indicate this point:
‘Perhaps the value of improvements would not discourage
condemnation, but local authorities might still feel it
inappropriate to condemn our property if we were
making use of it. As to the latter aspect of the case,
I believe, that either Elder Alvin R. Dyer or others
acquainted with local attitudes in Independence would
be better able to judge.’
In the light of what has been stated by the attorneys, I desire to make the following list of comments with a recommendation that these be given serious consideration:
a. The fact that a building would be placed on the property would inadvertently
preclude an effort to condemn, much less considerably if no building were placed
upon it.
b. The fact that we are holding the property, legally, for no apparent purpose
in itself could more legally bring condemnation procedures.
c. The fact that we are doing nothing with the property is distasteful to the
people in the area and does not help the image of or the work of the church
in that area.
d. If the Church built upon the property and would still be legally vulnerable to
condemnation which would be considerably less likely, then the cost of
condemnation would recompense to a degree, perhaps fully, for any improvement
expenditure. This point is indicated in the letter from Kenneth E. Midgley to
Wilford W. Kirton, Jr., wherein he states:
‘A review of our condemnation statutes and court decisions does not indicate
that any legal protection against condemnation will result on improving the
property except to increase the prospective amount of damages which must
be paid to condemn.’
Further in the same letter, this statement is made:
‘Improvements could discourage condemnation only if their fair market value
was so high that the potential condemnation award would be more than the
condemning authority would be willing to pay for the public use intended.’
The type of Bureau of Information proposed for our ‘temple land’ property at Independence would seem to me to be of sufficient value to discourage the authority who might be otherwise influenced to condemn.
In my letter to you pertaining to this matter, I mentioned two other reasons that I felt were important to the purpose of erecting a Bureau of Information upon the ‘temple land’ property at Independence. I would again recommend that these be given full attention.
I trust that I am not out of order in submitting this secondary recommendation to you on this project. President McKay, in the company of Mark E. Garff and Emil Fetzer, seemed quite definite that he favored the erection of the bureau. Therefore, this second appeal is made in the spirit of being subservient to whatever is decided, but to also evidence my deep interest and concern about the overall purpose of such a project.
Sincerely yours,
Alvin R. Dyer
Friday, April 14, 1967
April 13, 1967
Elder Mark E. Petersen, Chairman
Church Information Committee
Building
Dear Brother Petersen:
This letter is to signify my desire that we proceed at once with the necessary preparations and plans for the erection of a Bureau of Information Building on the Church Temple Land property at Independence, Missouri, in accordance with the preliminary study for such Bureau, which I requested, as presented to me by Elder Alvin R. Dyer, in company with Mark B. Garff and Emil Fetzer of the Church Building Committee, on March 10, 1967.
To secure the funds needed for this project, you are authorized to include in your budget request for 1967-68 the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000), which represents the estimate of cost provided by the Building Committee. This is exclusive of furnishings, landscaping, and display media, the cost of which is to be arranged for later when the actual amount is known.
Sincerely yours,
David O. McKay
President”
Friday, April 21, 1967
Visit and Meeting of Alvin R. Dyer with President David O. McKay
Friday, April 21, 1967
At his Hotel Utah Office. Clare Middlemiss, his personal secretary, was present.
Matters discussed, and upon which President McKay asked my opinion:
1. DMC – Executive Committee (Deseret Management Corporation)
The amendment to the by-laws of the corporation to permit the naming of an Executive Committee of five (5) members, only two of which are to be General Authorities, is further evidence that the organizational structure of DMC does not follow priesthood law. With three members of the Executive Committee constituting a majority, the corporation could be bound by decision, such majority could be of committee members who are not General Authorities. In this manner the President of the Church through Priesthood order, through the Twelve, would have no voice in decisions made that would bind the corporation.
2. The Richard Maycock resignation was discussed. The letter from Brother Maycock was read, wherein he explained the attitude by inference of Richard L. Evans, and Gordon B. Hinckley, toward him. That they had opposed his appointment to the chairmanship of the Church TV Committee and would not cooperate with him, consequently he could not really fill the assignment given him.
3. Our conversation led to the principles of Priesthood law. That history was repeating itself to an extent today by those who would circumvent the place and authority of the President. I read to the President excerpts from the revelations contained in Sections 28, 85, and 112, where in the early days of the Church some of the brethren in high places were almost constantly trying to by-pass the Prophet. To exalt themselves – and so it could be today for the natures of men are the same in each generation.
4. Mention was made of the expansion of the Church Real Estate Department which is no longer a part of the Building Committee. It has 25 employees, where as three were handling the work when it was part of the present Building Committee Department. Also that Wendell Mendenhall’s key man in England (Sterling) was chairman of the newly formed Church Real Estate Department.
5. The remainder of my visit was more of a personal nature. I asked the President if he remembered coming to the Monument Park Ward when I was the Bishop. He said that he seemed to recall it, and that he had gone there because he had heard of so many accomplishments of the ward. This latter statement he made to Sister Dyer after the particular sacrament meeting referred to in 1953. I told the President that Sister Dyer truly loved and honored him as a Prophet of God and that I joined with her in this. President McKay then expressed his love and feelings for Sister Dyer and me, and said wherever I went on Church assignment I was to take his love and kind wishes to the people.
6. I reported to the President that Elder Spencer W. Kimball, in kindness, referred to some derogatory remarks made in the Council of the Twelve meeting concerning a talk that I had given at the BYU Devotional on ‘The Center Place of Zion’ – that perhaps I had gone too far with certain statements. I learned quite by chance later that it may have been LeGrand Richards who had spoken of it on the strength of a letter he had received from his sister-in-law in California, who had written to him about this same talk I had given at the Santa Monica Stake Conference, reported to her by someone in attendance. Brother Richards at the time we were discussing the Maricopa Stake Conference, to which I had been assigned, referred to and read parts of the said letter. I told LeGrand that the talk I gave there was the same I had given at the BYU and that I would like to have him read it. He seemed delighted that I had a copy available. The next morning he said he had read the article and thought that it was a good talk and nothing whatsoever wrong with it. He said he was going to send the copy I gave to him to his sister-in-law. The President seemed quite pleased of this report.
I remarked that our people needed objectivity and understanding as to the destiny of the Church. President McKay spoke very objectively of the future of God’s work and of the Church, and of the particular future events to transpire in Missouri, the revealed center place of Zion, and that he wanted me to talk about it to the members of the Church.
7. I then asked the President if I might be excused to attend a meeting. He said, not yet, let me tell you a story. He then related the incident of his visit with President Dwight Eisenhower in Washington, D.C. At a particular point, President McKay thought the purpose of the visit had been accomplished and asked the President if he could be excused. To which President Eisenhower in substance answered, ‘Now President McKay, when you are at home you are the boss, but here I am and I will let you know when our visit is over’. (This, of course, was all said in good humor). But the President wanted me to know that he wanted me to stay longer which I did, but within a short while he said, Brother Dyer you can now be excused, but I want you to come back tomorrow morning.
I said I would be happy to do so, as I did not leave for Arizona until later in the day. He said to come at 8:30 a.m., with that I took my leave. The President said he appreciated my visit with him that morning.”
Sat., 22 Apr. 1967:
“8:30 a.m.
At my request Elder Alvin R. Dyer came in to see me at the apartment.
I talked mainly to Elder Dyer about his personal life, asking him several questions regarding his immediate family, his missionary service, both as President of the Central States Mission where he became so interested in the history of the Church in Missouri and other places in the beginning of the Church. He said that he toured the Mission with Adam S. Bennion about three months before Brother Bennion’s death, and told of his part in getting the first issuance of ‘The Refiner’s Fire’, a small volume of the historical highlights of Missouri, which he (Brother Dyer) had published.
Elder Dyer spoke of his continuing interest in Missouri, and I told him that I want him to be vitally interested in it, and to bring to my attention things of importance that are transpiring there. We discussed the significance of the revelations and the prophecies concerning this consecrated land.
I then asked Elder Dyer about his parents and grandparents, and he gave me a brief history of their lives, and of their interesting part in the early days of the Church.
Elder Dyer said that he has been appointed by the First Presidency to go to Mesa, Arizona to attend the Maricopa Stake. I told him that that brought memories to me of my many visits to Arizona; that Maricopa was the first Stake, and that the father of Harold Wright (who now presides) was its first President.
We had a very interesting and pleasant visit for an hour and a half, and then Elder Dyer left. (For further details of the conversation, see following minutes prepared at my request by Elder Dyer.)
Saturday, April 22, 1967
Meeting of Alvin R. Dyer with President David O. McKay, Saturday, April 22, 1967, at the President’s Hotel Utah Office from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m.
President McKay had asked the previous morning that I return to meet with him on this morning. In accordance with his wish I was there at the appointed time to find the President alert, and seemingly anxious to talk to me about my personal life.
The following are things which I spoke of in response to his various questions:
1. Of my immediate family, my dear wife May, our two children, Gloria and Brent and their companions. Both were married in the temple and are active in the Church. Gloria married a returned missionary, Reed Klein, the son of a German convert who for years played in the Salt Lake Symphony. To them has been born three sons, Mark, David (named after President McKay), and Steven. Brent married Carolynne Smith, a descendant of Joseph Smith and Brigham Young. They have one daughter, Allyson.
2. Concerning my missionary service. At the age of 18 I was called to the Eastern States serving under B.H. Roberts. That my mother died while in the field, but that I remained to fill my mission serving 26 months. I was supervising Elder over the New York District.
3. I recalled the experience while Bishop of the Monument Park Ward of being called to serve as the President of a full-time mission. I was then 50 years old. Stephen L. Richards, first counselor to President McKay, whom I loved and respected, (The President broke in here and said that Stephen L. Richards was a very dear friend) said that the Western and Central States Missions were in need of presidents. Sister Dyer and I prayed that if it was the will of the Lord, we be called to go to the Central States Mission, because of passing through Independence, Missouri in 1951, and feeling then that we would someday return. President Richards a day or so later informed me that he felt impressed to call us to preside over the Central States Mission which we did for 4 1/2 years beginning in March of 1954.
I told the President of our developing love and interest in Missouri, and of its destiny and importance to the Church. I related the experience which I had with Adam S. Bennion who toured the Central States Mission about three months before his death and of his part in getting the first issuance of the Refiner’s Fire, a small volume of the historical highlights of Missouri which I had written, published. (This is the book which President McKay has now authorized to be revised and enlarged.)
I spoke of our continuing interest in Missouri. The President then referred to the fact that he wanted me to be vitally interested in it and to bring to his attention things of importance that were transpiring there, and of things of the significance of the revelations and prophecies concerning this consecrated land. (Note: The President had spoken of this assignment to me regarding Missouri on a number of previous occasions and reaffirmed it this day.)
4. The President asked about my parents and grandparents. In response to which I recalled the experiences of the conversion of my Grandfather and Grandmother Dyer, and of their successful efforts in converting members of their own families; of their emigration to America. My Great Grandfather Dyer offered the prayer of thanksgiving as they left the ship that had brought them safely to America. Of their trek across the plains, first having had their wagon plains outfit stolen, which required all of the rest of their money to reoutfit. Two of my aunts, Clementina and Valentian, died enroute to Utah and were buried on the plains. My father, then a small boy, was stolen by Indians who attempted to pay for him by leaving six ponies, but the scouts of the train found the Indian Camp and then waited for the braves to go hunting and then rescued him, leaving the ponies and a blanket on each so that the Indians would not follow. My father, Alfred Dyer, lived to be a great friend of the Indians. As a boy had the job of lighting all the gas lamps on main street. My grandfather William Dyer was made Assistant Superintendent of a Copper refinery and left there to the great disappointment of his employers who offered him a big increase in salary to remain. He understood the process of tempering copper, but promised his employers he would not divulge the secret.
Not long after Grandfather Dyer and his family arrived in the Salt Lake Valley, word came from his former employers in Wales to come back, guaranteeing passage costs, but they had realized their great hope and were now with the Saints here in the Rockies, and here they would remain. Grandfather at one time was asked to explain the details of tempering copper by certain interests here, but this he would not do in accordance with the promise he had made. He was a close friend of Apostle Mathias Cowley, the father of Mathew Cowley.
5. The President seemed to want to know all about my family. I told him of our Dyer Family organization which had accomplished a great deal in genealogical research, having now completed 1200 family group sheets, baptisms, endowments and sealings by proxy and that the work was still going on with my brother Gus acting as heir and doing a great deal of the work. Out of 13 children born to my father and mother, both of whom are dead, only Gus and I remain, but that all had been sealed in the temples.
6. In speaking to the President of my going to Mesa, Arizona, that day to attend the Maricopa Stake, it brought memories to him of his many visits to Arizona. That Maricopa was the first stake and that the father of Harold Wright, who now presides, was its first president. The President was in a reminisary mood and talked of the days when he was traveling to the stake conferences. I mentioned that programs were now being considered to give greater flexibility to the General Authorities attending stake conferences, that perhaps the conference schedule was now being over programmed with auxiliary and priesthood committee schedules; that some other time, other than stake conference should be provided for training and motivation in these special programs. The President agreed that something should be done to keep the stake conferences in the image of the revelations pertaining to them.
7. We had a most pleasant visit together and nearly all that is written here was spoken of as a direct result of questions that the President asked.
He asked that I take his love and best wishes to the Saints of the Maricopa Stake, which I did much to their delight.
The President said he was most appreciative of my visit with him, and hoped that we could meet again soon.”
Wed., 10 May 1967:
“9:55 a.m.
Elder Alvin R. Dyer came by appointment, and reported that on Saturday, May 13, he will speak at the Seventeenth Ward in Salt Lake City under the auspices of the BYU ‘Know Your Religion Series’, substituting for President Hugh B. Brown who will be in Nauvoo attending a meeting of the Nauvoo Restoration Corporation. He said that President Tanner had asked him to fill this assignment.
I asked Elder Dyer to read a certain section in a book prepared by Harold Glen Clark titled ‘The Art of Governing Zion’, particularly Chapters 13 and 14, which deal with the High Priests, referring to the Presidency, and to report to me his opinion of what has been written.
I also asked Elder Dyer what he thought of a proposal to restore the old Pioneer fort that once stood on the ground now known as Pioneer Park in Salt Lake City. A letter had been prepared for the Presidency which I had held up. Elder Dyer said that he had heard of the plan and read the brochure, and his only fear in supporting it is that it might run counter to what they are doing on Temple Square. However, if the money is available, he would rather see it spent on the restoration of the old Fort rather than at Nauvoo. I asked him why, and Elder Dyer gave me several reasons for his feelings about restoring Nauvoo.
I said that I am opposed to the development of Nauvoo and that the cost for the same is being placed upon the Church. I said, ‘What are we doing in Nauvoo? Why are we there? Why is the Church spending money for its expansion?’ Elder Dyer said he felt that we should not be building up Nauvoo for the reasons he had given. (For further details see minutes following prepared by Elder Dyer at my request.)
Wednesday, May 10, 1967
Meeting of Alvin R. Dyer with President David O. McKay
Wednesday, May 10, 1967
At 9:45 a.m. on this day I was called by Clare Middlemiss, Secretary to President McKay, and asked to go to the President’s apartment at the Hotel Utah as quickly as possible. I left my office soon thereafter, arriving at the apartment about 9:55 a.m. I was greeted by Sister Middlemiss at the door, and was asked to go into President McKay’s office. He seemed genuinely pleased to see me. After greetings I sat close to him. The nurse brought me a breakfast health drink, which had already been served to the President and Sister Middlemiss, which we drank together.
I told the President I was pleased to see him and that it was an honor, as always, to be in his presence. He expressed delight in seeing me again. I told him of my two imminent assignments. One for Saturday, May 13th, to speak at the 17th Ward, Salt Lake City, Utah, under the auspices of the B.Y.U. ‘Know Your Religion Series’, substituting for President Brown whom it was reported will be in Nauvoo. President Tanner had asked me to fill the assignment. The other was to represent the General Authorities in attending the Lamanite Temple Excursion Conference at Mesa, Arizona.
I was with the President and his secretary until about 10:45 a.m., at which time I asked to be excused to attend our scheduled Home Teaching Committee meeting in Marion Romney’s office.
While I was with the President the following matters were discussed:
1. The President asked me to read a certain section of a book prepared by Harold Glen Clark titled The Art of Governing Zion, particularly chapters XIII and XIV dealing with the Presiding High Priests referring to the Presidency. This I agreed to do and to submit to him my appraisal of the material.
2. Reference was made to a letter from Nicholos Morgan and Edward O. Andersen, architect, together with a prepared brochure outlining and portraying by drawing, a proposal to restore the old pioneer fort that once stood on the ground now known as Pioneer Park here in Salt Lake City.
A letter had been prepared for the presidency which already bore the signature of President Tanner and Joseph Fielding Smith. The letter was an answer to the parties named that the Church could not participate in the project. I was asked how I felt about it. I advised the President that I had heard of the plan and had seen the ‘brochure’ — that my only fear in supporting it was that it might run counter to what had already been established and what was in process on Temple Square. That perhaps two major bureaus of the Church in the city was too much. However, if the money was available, I would rather see it spent here than in Nauvoo. The President then asked me why.
3. My reply concerning Nauvoo and its extensive restoration concerned the fact that whatever we did there would react greatly to the benefit of the R.L.D.S. for the following reasons:
a. The R.L.D.S. owns the Mansion House where the Prophet and his family lived. This would accrue to their advantage with visitors.
b. The R.L.D.S. also own the cemetery where the Prophet, his brother Hyrum
and Emma are buried. This also could put us in a shadow so far as explaining
to tourists.
c. The Masonic Lodge still stands in Nauvoo, this was built by the Church, and
according to the frequently used story by them, it was built with funds that should
have been used on the temple structure. This, they claim, caused the Church to
be rejected. (See Section 124 of the D&C)
Comment:
In the discussion with the President of the restoring and development of Nauvoo, he seemed very much opposed to its expanded development and the cost burden of the same being placed upon the Church. Several times he asked, ‘What are we doing in Nauvoo? Why are we there? Why is the Church spending money for its expansion?’ I have heard the President say upon several occasions at Huntsville and here in Salt Lake City that he would not approve the expenditure of funds for any further development at Nauvoo, that he was opposed to it. His expressions can mean only one thing since money continues to be appropriated, he is being pressured into it.”
Fri., 2 June 1967
“Report of Meeting of Alvin R. Dyer With President David O. McKay At His Hotel Apartment
Friday, June 2, 1967, from 11:05 to 11:35 a.m.
Upon arriving at the Hotel apartment of President McKay, he was just finishing a morning health drink. He motioned to me to come into his office.
The President said he was feeling quite well, and upon question said he thought that ‘Nick’, the Deseret Gym Massuer, was helping him with occasional massages. He thanked me for making arrangements for these.
The purpose of my meeting with President McKay was to report on two special assignments, and to seek counsel on another matter. I reported on the following:
1. The dedication of the Kiwanis-Felt Boy’s Club at 440 South Ninth East,
held at the club at a noon day luncheon on Thursday the 25th of May, 1967,
which I offered the dedicatorial prayer. (Note: See formal report on this
attached.) A souvenir program was given to the president, autographed by
Marie Felt who is responsible for the idea of special concern for boys. I also
conveyed the personal greetings to President McKay of the many at the club
who requested including Mayor J. Bracken Lee.
2. I reported on the very satisfactory and inspirational experience which Sister
Dyer and I had in representing the General Authorities at the Lamanite Temple
Excursion at Mesa, Arizona, May 20-22, 1967. 117 members from the Mexican
missions and stakes were present, the majority of whom traveled 1700 miles by
bus each way to participate. Meetings were held with them on Saturday and
Sunday. They seemed overjoyed to be there to attend to their temple work.
The matter upon which I sought the President’s direction concerned a letter from Arch Madsen of Bonneville International.
A short while ago a ‘get acquainted breakfast’ for some local people of Kansas City was held to introduce personnel and discuss the taking over of Station KMBZ, recently purchased by the Church. I was invited to attend this but commitments here prevented it. The letter referred to concerned the possibility of a reception being held on an evening, with me being in attendance, where I could invite many business people and others whom I knew. I asked the President if it were my place to get involved with such an event. I read Arch Madsen’s letter. President McKay encouraged me to do it. Actually, he said concerning my getting into this that he put me into, and that I should work it out to be present there upon such an occasion.
I also read to President McKay a letter from a girl in Idaho attending Ricks College who came in contact with some members of the R.L.D.S.. and who had begun to question the strength of our position until she read my book The Fallacy that brought back assurance and answered her questions. She bore her testimony that President McKay was a true Prophet in succession to Joseph Smith.
Note: At 11:10 a.m. Clare Middlemiss, President McKay’s personal secretary arrived and sat in on the report and matters discussed.”
Tues., 20 Jun., 1967:
Alvin R. Dyer’s Book ‘The Refiner’s Fire’ – Report by Harold B. Lee
President Brown presented Elder Harold B. Lee’s report on his reading of ‘The Refiner’s Fire’ and revisions proposed. Brother Lee’s report is not favorable of its being published. A revision and improvement are needed. Brother Lee’s report was read. President Brown was asked to read the manuscript upon which Brother Lee reports and to bring to the First Presidency his recommendation.”
Thur., 6 Jul., 1967:
“In Huntsville.
3:30 p.m.
By appointment, Elder Alvin R. Dyer came up to Huntsville and talked over with me that part of the new Church handbook pertaining to the duties and place of the First Presidency. He said that this manuscript had been handed to him by Elder Harold B. Lee to go over and to make whatever corrections he thought should be made.
He read to me the paragraphs as written on the First Presidency, and the corrections he had suggested which correspond with the revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants. I agreed with Brother Dyer’s suggestions, and said that the changes should be made.
Brother Dyer left with me a copy of the manuscript.”
Wed., 19 Jul., 1967:
“Decided not to hold a meeting with the Counselors today.
10:30 a.m.
My secretary came over to the apartment and presented a number of letters that had accumulated during my illness.
I then asked her to read to me the corrections made in the manuscript of the new general Handbook of the Church by Elder Alvin R. Dyer. The section given to Elder Dyer by Elder Harold B. Lee for corrections and suggestions pertains to the duties of the First Presidency and the Twelve, without mention of the place and duties of the President of the Church.
The manuscript now reads as follows:
General Authorities of the Church
The First Presidency represents the Lord Jesus Christ and have received power and authority from Him to preside over and direct all of the affairs of His earthly Kingdom which is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They are assisted by the Council of the Twelve Apostles, whose members hold with them the keys of the kingdom. The First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve are the General Priesthood Board of the Church and have the control, supervision, and direction of all Priesthood and auxiliary affairs.
Brother Dyer did not agree with the above statement and submitted what he thought should go in the Handbook. His suggestions and corrections are as follows:
President of the High Priesthood
One is appointed of the High Priesthood and is called the President of the High Priesthood of the Church. He it is whom we call the President of the Church. From him comes the Administering of ordinances and blessings upon the Church, by the laying on of the hands. (See D&C 107:65-67; 132:7-8; 107:91.)
The First Presidency
By the President’s choosing and the sustaining of other High Priests as Counselors, even as many as twelve, but not fewer than two (D&C 107:22; 107:79-80), the Quorum of the First Presidency is formed. Thus in this manner, with the “one appointed” presiding, the First Presidency represents the Lord, Jesus Christ, and have received power and authority from Him to preside over and direct all of the affairs of the Kingdom of God, which is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The scriptures referred to above are as follows:
Doctrine and Covenants 107:65-67
Wherefore, it must needs be that one be appointed of the High Priesthood to preside over the priesthood, and he shall be called President of the High Priesthood of the Church.
Or, in other words, the Presiding High Priest over the High Priesthood of the Church.
From the same comes the administering of ordinances and blessings upon the Church, by the laying on of the hands.
Doctrine and Covenants 107:91
And again, the duty of the President of the office of the High Priesthood is to preside over the whole Church, and to be like unto Moses.
Doctrine and Covenants 132:7-8
. . . sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise, of him who is anointed, both as well for time and for all eternity, and that too most holy, by revelation and commandment through the medium of mine appointed, whom I have appointed on the earth to hold this power (and I have appointed unto my servant Joseph to hold this power in the last days), and there is never but one on the earth at a time on whom this power and the keys of this priesthood are conferred…. Behold, mine house is a house of order, saith the Lord God, and not a house of confusion. (See also D&C 28:2-6.)
(Note: The following statement of the Prophet Joseph apparently does not refer to future time of death, but rather of condi-tions while he yet lived, but “where” he was not present to exercise the right of the one who presides:
The Prophet Joseph Smith declared at a particular time that “where” he was not, not “when” he was not, there is no First Presidency over the Twelve. (DHC II:374.)
Inasmuch as Elder Dyer’s corrections and additions are in accordance with the revealed word in the Doctrine and Covenants, I stated, as I have already stated to Elder Dyer, that the additions and corrections as submitted by him should go in the Handbook.
After Clare had finished with her work with me and was taking her leave, I told her how much I appreciate her devotion and attention to the work.”
Wed., 16 Aug., 1967:
“Did not hold a meeting of the Presidency today.
10:20 a.m.
Brother and Sister Alvin R. Dyer by appointment called at the apartment and said that they are leaving for South America this Friday morning to attend three Stake Conferences. Brother Dyer said that he had just returned from Mexico where he had attended a Stake Conference. He said that he was thrilled with our school there, and what it is accomplishing for the Mexican children.
I told Brother Dyer that I am happy that Sister Dyer is going with him to South America. Brother Dyer said, “Do you have a message for me to take to the members of the Church in the Stakes that I shall visit?” I said, “Yes, take my blessings and greetings to the people wherever you go.”
As Brother and Sister Dyer were leaving to go, I said to Brother Dyer, “I want to see you again before you leave.” Brother Dyer said, “When do you want me to come?”, and I answered, “This afternoon.”
Later, I found it was not possible for me to see Brother Dyer this afternoon, so he was told to come tomorrow morning. (See August 17, 1967.)
Thur., 17 Aug., 1967:
11:30 a.m.
Elder Alvin R. Dyer – Special Appointment
Brother Alvin R. Dyer came in at my request, and once again said good-bye before leaving for Stake Conferences in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Sao Paulo, Brazil, and Mexico.
I told Brother Dyer that I had been reading a report from one of the Brethren regarding the future of the Indians and what the Gospel will do for them.
Brother Dyer mentioned how much he likes the Lamanite people, and that he loves to work with them. He talked of the Indians on reservations in the East with whom he had come in contact, and said that he hoped to meet some Lamanites in South America.
Following a very interesting conversation on this subject, I asked Brother Dyer how long he would be in South America, and he answered, “About three weeks.” He asked me again, “Do you have a message you would like me to take to the people?”, and I said, “Yes, give them my love, blessings, and prayerful wishes for their welfare.”
Then I said, “Brothers Dyer, I am giving you notice now that I am calling you to be one of my assistants.”
Brother Dyer was so taken back by my statement that he turned to my secretary who was present during the interview and said, “What did he say?” She was so overcome with the spirit that she was weeping, and said, “He meant just what he said – -he is calling you to be one of his assistants, or counselors.”
At that Brother Dyer bowed his head for some little time and then looked up at me and said, “I’ll do all in my power, in the background, or anywhere, to serve and help you, President McKay.”
I said, “Did you know I have been watching you for a year now?” With tears in his eyes , Brother Dyer said, “No, I should have been scared to death if I had known.” I said, “Well, I want you to go now on your trip to South America, and when you get back, you report to me. I’ll make the announcement after you get back.”
Brother Dyer then stood and said, “It is a great honor to serve you!” He leaned down and affectionately put his cheek against mine, and his arms around my shoulders, and our eyes were moist as he slowly walked out of the office and out the door of the apartment.
My secretary, who had been present during the interview, not knowing what was coming, was in tears, and after Brother Dyer had left she said, “I have never been so affected before — if I ever felt the spirit or felt that I was hearing revelation, it was this morning when you called Brother Dyer.” (See Brother Dyer’s account which follows of the meeting which he sent from Buenos Aires, Argentina, August 21, 1967.)
“A record of the occasion when Pres. David O. McKay called Elder Alvin R. Dyer to be his Assistant.
Thursday August 17th 1967
At the request of President David O. McKay, I went to his Hotel Utah apartment office, at approximately 11:30 A.M. I had visited with him briefly the previous day, May was with me then. We had gone there, seeking his blessing for our South American trip, at which time he seemed quite happy that Sister Dyer was to accompany me, and asked that we extend his love to the members of the Church, in the stakes at Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, and Mexico City, where we were to hold stake conferences on successive week ends, beginning August 19, 20, 1967.
Clare Middlemiss, his secretary, was with him, going over some matters when I visited him on the 17th. He was very neatly dressed, with dark suit and light tie, and looked to be in good health, better than I had seen him for some time. He was reading a letter from someone regarding the great future for the acceptance of the gospel among the Indians in the Dakotas and Montana. I said the letter no doubt was referring to the Blackfoot, Shoshones and Sioux Indians and related my experiences in dedicating an Indian chapel on the Fort Hall Reservation, where only a few years ago the Indians were hostile, a number of young bucks came on horseback to break up the first meeting there.
I expressed my great regard for the Lamanites, and referreed to the choice experiences Sister Dyer and I had had at the Lamanite temple exercises at Manti [?] and my recent conference (Aug 12, 13, 1967) at the new Mexico City North Stake.
Because of his interest, I recalled to the President the experiences of the Prophet Joseph, who upon visiting Far West, Missouri, for the first time, in August of 1837, found the Presidency of the Church in Missouri, with David Whitmer as President, out of order in a number of Church procedures. Among these was the determination, arrived at by council, to build a temple at Far West. The Prophet informed them that a House of the Lord could be built only at the [illegible words] and that such revelation and commandment had not been received, obviously by him the prophet to whom such would be revealed. The commandment by revelation was given to Joseph Smith the following April, 1838, and is contained in Section 115 of the D&C.
I asked the Prophet why the announcement to build temples at Provo and Ogden had not formally been announced by him, or that perhaps he had willed it otherwise.
His answer seemed to imply that when he told his counselors to go ahead with the announcement procedures, he had assumed that such would be arranged with the stake presidents involved, for him to be present to give personal direction to the arrangements–that this was not done seemed to irritate the President.
We talked a little about my South American trip, and again he seemed satisfied to know that Sister Dyer was to accompany me. I mentioned that since we had been married we had only been separated for 3 or 4 days, and that a number of years ago Sister Middlemiss recalled that Pres. McKay at one time was away from his wife and children for 2 years. I said, that was a wonderful sacrifice but I was glad that I had not been called upon to make such a sacrifice.
The President then said, very deliberately and clearly that he wanted me to make the trip to hold the conferences in South America and Mexico City — but that he was notifying me that he had decided to call me as his assistant. This completely startled me, and thinking I had not understood, asked Sister Middlemiss what he had said. Her answer was, ‘He is calling you to be his assistnat,’ — and she said to the President, ‘Is that right, Pres. McKay?’ His answer was to repeat what he had already said, adding that he had been watching me for over a year, and had come to this conclusion. He then said that it would be formally announced shortly.
As the impact of the call settled upon me, I had an overwhelming feeling to do anything that the President asked, to help him in his remaining time that he would preside over the Church. There came to me, as never before, and I have had many callings, how much the gospel of Jesus Christ really means to me. I expressed this to the President, that it was my whole life, and that I would do all that I could to justify his confidence.
Without abeing fully aware my eyes had filled with tears. I noticed that Sister Middlemiss brushed aside the tears, as the President was solemn and most positive in extending the call to me. I placed my face against his with my arm about his shoulder and expressed my love for him.
I left his presence, with the expressed feeling that I would see him upon my return from the South.”
Thur., 21 Sep., 1967:
“8:15 a.m.
My secretary came over to the office in the Hotel Utah and handed me the agenda and notes for the meeting to be held with all the General Authorities in the Ternple this morning.
9:00 a.m. – 1:45 p.m.
Presided at the pre-Conference meeting of all the General Authorities in the Salt Lake Temple. It was a very inspirational meeting.
At the preliminary meeting, before the Twelve held their meeting alone, I was impressed to make the statement to all the Brethren (much to the upset of my Counselors, Presidents Brown and Tanner, who felt that I was getting a little mixed up, and that I should read the names of the Brethren who are to speak at Conference), that “there is a man in this room worthy to be named an Apostle, and I am presenting his name for your approval and sustaining vote this morning.” I then said, “I should like to present the name of Alvin R. Dyer as one worthy to be ordained an Apostle, but not to become a member of the Quorurn of the Twelve, but to be called upon to meet in the sacred meeting of the First Presidency and Twelve at all times.”
I called for a sustaining vote, and all the Brethren voted in the affirmative to sustain Elder Dyer as an Apostle. (See minutes following.)
Later, when the Tweve met alone with the First Presidency, I presented the matter again to them, and received their sustaining vote for Elder Dyer.
After this matter was settled, I blessed the Brethren, especially for their duties that lie ahead in a General Conference of the Church. I then called on representatives from each group to speak to us and to bear their testimonies.
(See minutes following.)
Note by CM
President McKay stated before the meeting in his office that his full intention and purpose of having Elder Dyer sustained as an Apostle, not as a member of the Twelve, but as an ordained Apostle, is for a special position to be named later by him.
Note by CM
Several of the Brethren came into the office and commented to the secretary about how wonderful the President was at the meeting this morning, and how he seemed to be in touch with heavenly powers as he told them of his decision to choose an Apostle, and gave them his blessing and encouragement for their responsibilities in the coming General Conference.”
“THURSDAY, September 21, 1967
REFLECTIONS OF MEETING IN THE SALT LAKE TEMPLE
Held in the First Presidency and Council of Twelve Room
All General Authorities were present except Mark E. Petersen, James A. Cullimore and Antoine R. Ivins.
President David O. McKay was present and presiding. He looked well and made a few remarks expressing how deeply appreciative he was to again be in meeting with his brethren.
The meeting was conducted by President Hugh B. Brown.
Prayer was offered by Elder Harold B. Lee.
Singing was led by Elder John Longden.
Representative Speakers:
Bishop John H. Vandenberg
Marion D. Hanks
Boyd K. Packer
Marion G . Romney
Eldred G. Smith
President N. Eldon Tanner
President McKay then requested that other brethren be called upon:
S. Dilworth Young
Franklin D. Richards
Spencer W. Kimball
President Brown then asked the President what was next. President McKay instructed President Brown to speak, which he did.
Thereafter President Brown pressed to have President McKay announce the names of the brethren to speak at Conference. President McKay carefully read silently each name on two sheets before him, but indicated that he did not want to announce the names at that time.
The President then sought a piece of paper in his pocket concerning a matter he desired to present. The President had a little difficulty locating it, but all the time he sought it President Brown kept pressing him to read the names from the sheets of paper in his hands. President Brown took the sheets of paper from the President saying, “Here President are the sheets with the names,” but the President was not ready to announce this, saying he wanted to present another matter. President Brown said, “Would you like me to read the names?” President McKay then said, “Don’t you think I can read?”
President Brown was heard to say, “What is on the paper you are trying to locate?” President McKay said, “You would like to know.” By that time President McKay had the note he was looking for.
Presentation of Elder Alvin R. Dyer as An Apostle
The President then said he desired to present the name of a man worthy to be ordained to the Apostleship, but not to be a member of the Quorum of the Twelve. At this point, President Brown evidently thought President McKay was confused and pressed again for the names; President Tanner joined in the effort to have the names announced.
President McKay — “No, I want to present another matter,” and then said, “I present for your sustaining vote the name of Alvin R. Dyer; that man as worthy to be ordained an Apostle, but not to be a member of the Quorum of the Twelve.”
There was a hush that fell over all present — especially myself — upon hearing this announcement. I felt that suddenly I was filled with holes, and lacked coherence. President McKay, after a brief pause, again presented my name as before. At this point President Tanner said, “You mean, President McKay, you want to have sustained here the name of Alvin R. Dyer to be ordained an Apostle, but not to be a member of the Quorum of Twelve?”
President McKay said “Yes,” and then called for a sustaining vote. I purposely observed the hands of all the brethren in a raised position — including Presidents Brown and Tanner. Later Elder Joseph Anderson confirmed that all the brethren had voted in the affirmative.
Thereafter the Sacrament was administered to, following which, with the brethren changing to their temple clothing, a prayer was held — with the signs of the Priesthood given and the prayer at the altar by President Joseph Fielding Smith.
The Assistants and Seventies were then dismissed that the Quorum of the Twelve could meet with the First Presidency.
COMMENT:
This action by President McKay was a great surprise to me; it is difficult to explain just how I felt. I seemed to lack control of maneuverability — but before going out to dress in temple clothes, I found my way to the side of the President, grasping his hand which he extended, and with tears in our eyes I said, “President you are truly a Prophet of God, and this was witnessed by all who are here today in that you pursued that which you felt inspired to do. I love you and will do all I can to be of help to you.” The President then said, “I want you to be by my side always, that I may know what is happening.”
After the Prayer Circle, I again went to the President’s chair to hold his hand and express my feelings for him which he graciously returned.
(Minutes as written by Elder Alvin R. Dyer at the request of President McKay)”
“Excerpt taken from Council Minutes of Thursday, September 21, 1967
Ordination to Apostleship
Just before the administration of the Sacrament in the General Authorities Meeting, President McKay presented for the consideration of all the Brethren of the General Authorities the proposition that Alvin R. Dyer be ordained an Apostle. The President made the following statement:
“I would like to present for your consideration the name of Alvin R. Dyer as being worthy of the Apostleship, and to be called upon to be present at the sacred meetings of the Presidency and the Twelve at all times.”
He asked if the Brethren had any objection.
President Brown inquired if Brother Dyer was to become one of the members of the Twelve.
President McKay said, “No”, that he would not be one of the Twelve, but will have the Apostleship and be present at all meetings.
There being no objection indicated, the President submitted the recommendation, “All who can sustain him as an Apostle, not as a member of the Quorum, but to be present and report wherever he may be called”, should indicate it.
Following the raising of hands of approval, the President asked if there was any opposing vote and no hands were raised.
President McKay then asked Brother Dyer if he was willing to accept the call.
Elder Dyer responded: “If I understand it correctly, President, I would be called to this position for whatever service you want me to serve in, and I would not be a member of the Twelve. Yes, I will be willing to do whatever you ask me to do.””
Fri., 22 Sep., 1967:
“Did not hold a meeting of the First Presidency today.
Council Meeting – Remarks Concerning
Brother Benson said, “That was a wonderful meeting yesterday, President McKay (referring to the special meeting of all the General Authorities held in the Temple), and you certainly showed at this meeting that you are the President and Prophet of this Church. You were truly inspired when you called Elder Dyer and in the way you conducted the meeting under a difficult situation.”
I answered, “While I am the President, I should like to follow my impressions in directing this Church, and when the Lord no longer needs me, then He knows what to do.””
Mon., 25 Sep., 1967:
“3:20 to 5:20 p.m.
Meeting with Elder Alvin R. Dyer regarding my decision to have him ordained to the Apostleship to assist me in my official duties. I told Brother Dyer that I should like him to stay close to me and keep me advised of all matters that the President of the Church should know about.
Elder Dyer stated that word had come to him through the secretary of the First Presideney that the Counselors were concerned about how he is to be sustained, and I answered that they need not be worried as I know how it is to be done.
Brother Dyer then reported to me that several of the Brethren had expressed to him their approval of his appointment, and I was pleased to learn of their reaction.
(See copy of the minutes which I requested Elder Dyer to write up.)”
“MONDAY, September 25, 1967
MEETING OF PRESIDENT DAVID O. McKAY WITH ELDER ALVIN R. DYER
I was advised by Clare Middlemiss, President McKay’s secretary, that President McKay would see me after his noon-day rest. I called the nurse (Cherie) at 3:20 p.m. and she said President McKay would see me in twenty minutes.
I joined the President, at the appointed time, and had a most inspirational discussion which lasted until 5:20 p.m. Listed below are the things that I discussed with the President and in which he gave me instruction:
1. After my ordination to the Apostleship I am to meet with the First Presidency in all of their meetings. The President said he wanted me by his side at all times to keep him informed on Church matters.
2. I was advised that I would be ordained after being sustained; that he personally would ordain me.
3. The matter as to what status I would hold in meeting with the First Presidency was not clarified at this time. We discussed, however, and read of accounts in Church history where certain brethren had been ordained apostles and called as counselors to different Presidents other than the normal two counselors.
We also read together several times the verse in Doctrine and Covenants 107 referring to the revealed fact that as many as twelve counselors may be called.
I mentioned that Joseph Anderson stated that they, meaning the Presidency, had some concern about how I was to be sustained — the reference here to the Presidency did not include President McKay — President McKay said they did not need to worry for he knew how it is to be done.
The President seemed very interested in certain reactions of the brethren to my call that were made to me personally.
Marion G. Romney said, “Alvin, you have been called by the highest authority upon earth, and it will be made known what you are to do.” He later said, “I support you 100%.”
The President seemed very pleased with this report saying, “Brother Romney is a great man.”
LeGrand Richards expressed his love and said, “There is no more devoted person in the Church,” and that I deserved the call. He blessed me and said he fully supported me.
Others who have reacted most favorably are Ezra Taft Benson, Gordon B. Hinckley, William J. Critchlow, Jr., Franklin D. Richards, and especially Boyd K. Packer and A. Theodore Tuttle. Still others — Spencer W. Kimball, Thomas S. Monson, Paul H. Dunn, Robert L. Simpson, Sterling W. Sill, John Longden, Bernard P. Brockbank, Theodore M. Burton, Eldred G. Smith, (James A. Cullimore later), ElRay L. Christiansen, (S. Dilworth Young later).
The President seemed real pleased at the brethren who had wished me well and supported my call.
4. I mentioned to the President the great problems of the Church — that one of the great problems of the Church was the great inactivity of families. The President very alertly said, “What can we do?”
I referred to Home Teaching — that perhaps our Bishops (generally) needed a greater consciousness in looking after and promoting ways to reach families; particularly the father.
I related that when I was a Bishop we reached many, many fathers and this was a great factor in activating entire families. Cases referred to were:
Lawrence Stratford — And the Purebred Horses of Al Maughan and Brig. Krause, “If you can do it I can.” I spoke at Brig. Krause’s funeral a short while ago. Al Mallerup — And the (8) Service Stations — Of the evening I sat with him before the open casket of his wife.
My visit with the President was uplifting. As I left I said, “I hope my visit has not been too long.” His reply was, “No, no, I have greatly enjoyed your visit, and we shall have many many more.”
I told the President that I deeply appreciated his confidence in me and that I would do anything he wanted me to do, in the background, in the open or any other way. He said, “Yes Brother Dyer I know you will.” We each expressed our love for the other, and after grasping his hand, which he held for some time, I left his presence.”
Tues., 26 Sep., 1967:
“12:00 noon
Held a meeting with my counselors and discussed the following matters:
October Conference Program
President Tanner asked if there were any matters pertaining to the Conference that I wanted to discuss with my Counselors between now and Conference time. I said that I thought everything was in order.
President Brown then stated that the question had arisen as to the presentation of the name of Alvin R. Dyer as an Apostle. I said that Brother Dyer’s name should be presented as an Apostle separate from the Quorum of the Twelve; and, after a discussion by the Counselors, that he should not be included in those who are sustained as Prophets, Seers, and Revelators. Later, I decided that Elder Dyer, as an Apostle, will be ordained by me as a Prophet, Seer, and Revelator, and should be sustained as such at Conference. (See diary of September 28, 1967.)
Wed., 27 Sep., 1967:
“11:00 a.m.
October Conference Preparations
Clare came over and presented several matters pertaining to the Conference Program. Went over the list of the General Authorities to be sustained at the Conference, and said that I should give further thought later in the day as to how Elder Alvin R. Dyer is to be sustained. Clare then read to me the manuscript of my closing message to the General Conference of the Church, which I approved for final writing.
Noting that I was not feeling too well, Clare suggested that she come back in the afternoon at which time we could continue Conference matters. I admitted that I was a little tired, and that it might be better for her to do that.
4:10 p. m.
October Conference – Presentation of Elder Dyer for Sustaining Vote
Clare handed me the list of Brethren who are to be sustained at the Conference on Friday afternoon, and I gave serious consideration of the matter of how Elder Dyer is to be presented. I told Clare that I would think about this and decide tomorrow just how to handle the matter.”
Thur., 28 Sep., 1967:
“10:45 a.m.
October Conference Matters
At my request, Clare came over to the apartment, and I gave her the list of the Brethren to be sustained at the Friday afternoon session of Conference, and said that I had decided that Elder Alvin R. Dyer’s name is to be included immediately following the list of the members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and is to be sustained as an “Apostle, Prophet, Seer, and Revelator,” just as regular members of the Quorum of the Twelve are sustained. On the list Joseph Anderson prepared, Elder Dyer had been placed with the Assistants to the Twelve, and the Seventies and Presiding Bishopric, to be presented and sustained with them, and it was not intended that he should be sustained as a “Prophet, Seer, and Revelator”. However, inasmuch as I shall ordain him as all Apostles are ordained — as “a Prophet, Seer, and Revelator” — he should be sustained by the Conference as such.
I called Brother Anderson, Secretary to the First Presidency, who had prepared the list, and instructed him that I wanted Elder Dyer’s name placed immediately under the Quorum of the Twelve, and that he should be sustained as “a Prophet, Seer, and Revelator.”
Brother Anderson said: “But when the Counselors discussed it with you the other day, it was decided he would not be sustained as a Prophet, Seer, and Revelator, but just as an Apostle, and would be named with the Assistants, Seventies, etc.” I said, “Well, he is to be sustained as I shall ordain him.” Brother Anderson said, “If that is the way you want it that is the way it will be.”
Clare handed me my Conference book containing all sessions of the Conference, together with my opening address for tomorrow morning. She said that books of like nature had been prepared for each of the Counselors, and asked me if I wanted to personally hand the books to the Brethren. I said, “No, I’ll not be able to do that now, so you deliver them and tell them that I instructed you to do so.”
I told Clare that I was deeply appreciative of her superior efficiency, and that her overseeing and preparing many phases for the General Conference had greatly relieved me, and that I am very pleased to find everything in order and to my entire satisfaction.
Later, my secretary, who waited two or three hours for the corrected list to put in the Conference books, contacted Brother Anderson’s office about the list, only to find that he had taken the list to President Brown and reported what President McKay had instructed him to do, and President Brown had held it up for further investigation.
When Clare went in to President Brown’s office to give him his Conference book, she explained that the list for the Brethren to be sustained Friday afternoon was not yet in his book, as she was waiting for the corrected list.
President Brown said “What is this about Elder Dyer’s sustaining, and what Joseph Andeson has told me?” Clare explained to him that I had decided that Elder Dyer is to be sustained as a Prophet, Seer, and Revelator right after the Council of the Twelve, and that I had instructed Brother Anderson by telephone to make the correction on the list.
President Brown then said, “Well, I’ll release the list for correction.”
It was afterwards inserted in the Conference books as I had instructed.”
Fri., 29 Sep., 1967:
“2:00 p.m.
President McKay presided at the afternoon session, and watched the proceedings over television from his apartment in the Hotel. At President McKay’s request, President Nathan Eldon Tanner conducted the session, and the Relief Society Singing Mothers from Canada provided the music.
President Hugh B. Brown of the First Presidency read the names of the General Authorities and General officers of the Church for the sustaining vote of the Conference.
New Apostle
Brother Alvin R. Dyer was sustained, following the Quorum of the Twelve, as an Apostle, and Prophet, Seer, and Revelator of the Lord. Following the sustaining of the General Authorities, President Brown read a letter addressed “To the Membership of the Church”, signed by the First Presidency, detailing the need for additional men to assist in carrying forth the work of the Lord. Sixty-nine men have been called to be known as “Regional Representatives of the Twelve” (See copy of letter following.)
Note by CM
The nurse reported that following the sustaining of the General Authorities and Alvin R. Dyer as an Apostle, while Brother Dyer was giving his acceptance speech, President McKay made the remark: “Brother Dyer now has the Apostleship and Counselorship.” (The President has privately called Brother Dyer to be his assistant but has not announced it officially — see diary of August 17, 1967.)
Mon., 2 Oct., 1967:
“I held no meetings today. Sister McKay and I have been very sad over the death of my sister , Annie (Mrs. Thomas B. ) Farr; in fact, many tears have been shed since we learned of her passing yesterday morning.
Dyer, Alvin R. – Inquiry Regarding His Setting Apart
President Nathan Eldon Tanner met Elder Dyer in the auditorium on the third floor of the Church Office Building, the occasion being the final meeting with the Regional Priesthood Representatives of the Twelve prior to their setting apart, which took place on this day. President Tanner asked Elder Dyer if he had been ordained as yet, and he told him no, but that President McKay had told him that he wanted to ordain him. President Tanner then said he thought it would be done in the Temple the following Thursday, October 5, and that he would speak to President McKay about it.
Upon learning of this, President McKay assured Elder Dyer that he may not be at the Thursday meeting on October 5, that, however, he would ordain him at his office in the apartment just prior to the meeting if he was unable to attend the Temple meeting.”
Thur., 5 Oct., 1967:
“8:30 a.m.
This morning held a meeting of the First Presidency in my apartment with Presidents Brown and Tanner. President Smith was meeting with the Twelve in the Temple. Among matters discussed were:
Alvin R. Dyer – Ordained an Apostle
At 8:40 a.m. I received a call from Elder Dyer stating that I had said I wanted to ordain him to the Apostleship, and wondered if I would be at the Temple meeting this morning to do it; otherwise, one of the Counselors might ask if they should do it.
I told Elder Dyer that I wanted to do it, and then asked where he was, and he said that he was at his office in the Church Offices. I told him to stay there, and that I should call shortly.
After a few moments’ discussion with the Counselors, I asked the secretary to call Elder Dyer and tell him to come right over.
Elder Dyer arrived at 9:15 a.m. I took his hand and welcomed him. He mentioned the funeral services of my sister, Annie, and said he felt they were very appropriate. I told him how much I appreciated his attendance.
I invited Elder Dyer to sit by my side, and I asked him if he is willing to accept the calling of the Apostleship, and such other assignments that would go with it. Elder Dyer said that he would do his utmost to faithfully fulfill the trust. I then asked him: “Is there any reason why you should not be ordained?”, and Elder Dyer answered, “No, so far as I know.” He stated that he is willing to accept the responsibility of this new call, whatever it might be.
I then asked Brother Dyer to sit on the leather ottoman placed in front of me, so that I could place my hands upon his head without standing, and asked Presidents Brown and Tanner to join me in laying hands upon Elder Dyer’s head, and I was voice in ordaining him an Apostle of the Church in the following words:
“Brother Alvin R. Dyer, we lay our hands upon your head and ordain you an Apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Elder Dyer’s report of this blessing adds at this point: ‘to serve in ways to which you will be assigned’).
“We pray that the blessings of the Lord that accompany those who have authority to participate in these responsibilities may be yours. Be true to the calling and true to the Lord, and if you are faithful, the Lord will bless you in the performance of these duties. We bless you with all the authority pertaining to the duties of this office, and we bless you and ordain you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”
The Counselors then departed for the Council Meeting in the Temple, and I asked Elder Dyer to remain for a conference with me.
I asked Elder Dyer to sit down, as I wanted to talk to him, and I expressed my feeling to him and told him, as I have a number of times, that I want him to attend every meeting that I hold with my Counselors, including those held in the Temple. He asked me how he would be notified as to when these meetings will be held, and I told him that I would have my secretary notify him.
I then said good-by to him, asking that the Lord continue to bless him in his responsibilities. (See minutes of this meeting by Elder Dyer which follow.)”
“(Minutes of Meeting Held with The First Presidency and Elder Alvin R. Dyer at which time he was Ordained An Apostle; and also Minutes of Meeting Held alone with President McKay immediately following.)
On Thursday morning, October 5, 1967, still a little fearful concerning who would ordain me to the Apostleship, I called the President’s Hotel Apartment and asked to speak to LouJean, the President’s daughter, who is staying with them for a short while. I explained to LouJean the President’s wishes concerning my ordination. She said, “They are here now, (meaning The First Presidency), in a meeting. Do you want me to go in and mention this to President McKay?” I said, “Yes, I believe you should.”
Within a few seconds I heard the President’s voice on the telephone. I said, “You recall President that you wanted to ordain me, and that this is the way I wanted it.” I also mentioned to him that President Tanner had stated that it probably would be done in the Temple. I said, “This is all right with me if you will be there so you can do it; if not I feel it should be done where it will fulfill your wishes.” President McKay said, “Yes, I want to do it.”
He asked where I was then. I told him I was in my office in the Church Office Building. He then said how long will it take you to get over here? I told him only a few minutes. He said all right you stay there on call. The phone rang in a few minutes. It was Joseph Anderson who said the President wants you to come right over.
My call to LouJean was made shortly before 9:00 A. M., so I must have reached the President’s apartment in the Hotel about 9:15 A. M. President Hugh B. Brown and President N. Eldon Tanner were there as also Joseph Anderson.
The President seemed delighted to see me, although it was plain that he did not feel well. The strain of Conference and the death of his sister Annie had taken much of his strength. He grasped my hand as I commented on the appropriate funeral service of his sister held yesterday. The President expressed appreciation to me for being in attendance. (I was the only member of the General Authorities to attend the funeral.) I told him I had shaken hands with many of his family including quite a few youngsters and he was manifestly pleased with this.
Ordained As An Apostle By President David O. McKay
As I sat by his side, he asked me if I was willing to accept the calling of the Apostleship and such other assignments that would go with it. I told him that I was, and would do my utmost to faithfully fulfill the trust. He said, “Yes, I know you will.” He then said, “Is there any reason why you should not be ordained?” I said, “None, so far as I know.”
We then placed a leather ottoman in front of him and I sat on it. He could easily place his hands upon my head without standing. President Brown and President Tanner joined President McKay as they placed their hands upon my head. President McKay was mouth and ordained me to the Apostleship, by the authority of the Holy Priesthood and in the name of Jesus Christ. Important among the things which he said, and which I shall ever remember, were the following: the conferred power and authority of the Apostleship; that I should serve in ways to which I would be assigned; that I should always honor and be true to my calling.
It was a most glorious event in my life — to be ordained to this high and holy calling by one whom I so dearly love. The tears could not be kept back; it was a time of rejoicing.
After the ordination, Presidents Brown and Tanner with Brother Anderson left for the Temple meeting with the Quorum of the Twelve.
To Attend The First Presidency’s Meetings Including Those In The Temple
President McKay asked me to sit down as he wanted to talk to me. We discussed his feelings, expressed a number of times in the past two weeks, including those in the Temple — that he wanted me to attend every meeting that he held with his counselors.
I asked if such meetings were held regularly and he said no, only upon call. I then asked how I was to know about them. He then said that his secretary would inform me. I said, “You mean Clare Middlemiss?” And he said, “Yes.”
As I left him he said, “May the Lord continue to bless you.” It was about 9:45 A.M. when I left him. He waved to me as I went out of the door.”
Fri., 6 Oct., 1967:
“Did not hold a meeting of the First Presidency today. They held a meeting with the Presiding Bishopric at 9:00 a.m.
10:30 a.m.
My secretary, Clare, came over, and presented letters and office matters which had accumulated since before Conference.
She first presented the matter of the passing of Brother James E. Ellison of Layton, Utah, a long-time friend with whom I was associated on the board of the Layton Sugar Company for many years.
I read the telegram of sympathy to be sent to the family to be read at the funeral services.
(See copy following, also copy of note of appreciation from the family.)
Alvin R. Dyer – Appointments to Conferences
The subject of Elder Dyer’s held [help?] and assistance to me was discussed. Upon learning that he has been appointed to go to Germany and other countries in Europe during all of the month of November, I called President Joseph Fielding Smith and asked him to come over to my office. I then suggested that he not give Elder Dyer assignments to Stake Conferences with the exception of nearby Stakes when I have not given him special assignments.
President Smith answered, “Anything you want, President McKay; I am with you.”
I then called Elder Dyer and asked him to come over to the office to join in our discussion about his appointments.
He arrived about 12:15 p.m. I asked him if he had received an assignment to attend Stake Conferences in Europe, and he told me that he had and was worried about the matter since I had asked him to be present at all First Presidency’s meetings.
I told Elder Dyer that I have asked President Smith not to send him on any appointment which will take him from the office for any length of time so that he will be on call at all times.
“JOURNAL RECORD OF ALVIN R. DYER
FRIDAY, October 6, 1967
Having received assignments from President Joseph Fielding Smith to attend the Vancouver Stake Conference on October 21-22nd, and the three German Stake Conferences — Hamburg, Berlin and Stuttgart in November, the question arose in my mind as to how I could fill stake conference assignments of such distance from Church Headquarters and still be available here to attend the meetings of the First Presidency.
I discussed this matter with President McKay’s secretary, Clare Middlemiss, who felt that I should see the President to get the matter straightened out. At about 9:30 A. M. on this day I called the President’s Hotel Apartment and learned from LouJean, his daughter, that the nurse had succeeded in getting him down and he was asleep, and would I call back.
I thought to call again in the early afternoon for the purpose interned.
In the meantime, Sister Middlemiss, laden with many matters to discuss with the President, went to his hotel office where she apparently first off, because of her own anxiety in the matter, called President McKay’s attention to the fact that I would be of little help to him if I were sent on conferences that would keep me away during week-days. The President agreed. As a result, President Joseph Fielding Smith was called to President McKay’s Office on the matter.
It was at this time that I was called to meet with President McKay and President Smith. It was about 12:15 P.M. noon-time when I arrived to find them there, and also Clare Middlemiss.
After shaking hands and greeting each other, President McKay asked me to sit down and immediately asked if I had received the assignment to attend stake conferences in Germany. I told him I had and this is why I had called earlier, for the purpose of speaking to him about it.
I then turned to President Smith, who makes the Conference assignments, and explained my anxiety in the matter, since President McKay had instructed me to attend all of the First Presidency Meetings. I said further that I realized that he had difficulty in having enough available brethren to fill the Stake assignments, and that I wanted to help all I could, but that I felt a solemn obligation to fill my obligation to President McKay and could not do so with such Conference assignments. The President then said I was to work closely with Brother Joseph so that my assignments could be made so as to keep me available here for the First Presidency Meetings.
President Smith was very agreeable to the arrangement and said that a change would be made on the German Stakes. President McKay then asked if I had other Stake Conference assignments. I advised him that I was attending the Lyman Stake Conference this week, October 7-8th, at Rock Springs, Wyoming, and a week later the Oneida Stake at Preston, Idaho. I also mentioned that I had received the assignment letter this morning to attend the Vancouver Stake Conference on October 21 and 22. President Smith spoke up and said that the latter assignment would be changed because of the distance, and that hereafter I would receive assignments to State only, that would insure my return home on Sunday, so as to be available for any Monday morning meetings of the First Presidency; and also so as not to leave before Saturday.
President McKay evidenced his complete desire that this should be done, and President Smith assured him this would be done.
While I was there with President McKay, he having indicated he wanted me to stay, his secretary presented him with a letter addressed ‘To All Department Heads’ — to be signed by the First Presidency. It had already been signed by President Tanner and President Smith. President Smith stated that he understood the matter had been completely approved and this is why he signed it; but President McKay seemed not to understand its meaning and purpose, and was therefore reluctant to sign it.
It was later determined that the matter had come before the First Presidency and had been approved. Nevertheless, President McKay did not want to sign the letter until he knew more about the matter, which concerned the setting up of a Personnel Director for the Church Employees to provide services in all personnel matters such as employment, wage administration, employee benefit programs, and training.
It appeared to the President that this could be a bureau within the Church that might well involve many employees, experts etc., and that he wanted to know more about it.
He assigned President Smith and myself to look into it and report back. It followed that I was to do the checking, and then discuss the results with President Smith for a report to President McKay.
The discussion next led to the Nauvoo Restoration, and the large amounts of money being spent by the Church; whereas originally funds also were to come from other sources.
I again commented that whatever we did there would greatly benefit the R. L. D. S. movement since they owned the Mansion House, the home of the Prophet, and also the burial place of Joseph, Emma and Hyrum, and would use this as a leverage against whatever story we would tell there.
President Smith then said, “I want to make myself clear concerning the Nauvoo Restoration; I am not in favor of it. We were driven out of there by the forces of evil — so let the devil have it.
President McKay then asked that we conjointly look into the matter of where the Church was going there and what it was costing the Church. Here again I understood that I was to do the checking and to work with President Smith in preparing a report for President McKay.
President Smith and I left together. President McKay was smiling when we left and seemed happy.
President Smith said to me on the way out, “Let us work together and support the President.” I told him I was strongly in favor of this. President Smith then asked that when we attend the First Presidency Meetings we go together. I told him this would please me very much.”
Wed., 11 Oct., 1967:
“Did not hold a meeting with my Counselors this morning.
9:45 a.m.
Clare called for an appointment. The nurse told her not to come until 10:15 a.m.
10:15 a.m.
Elder Alvin R. Dyer came in and took up a number of items with me pertaining to the general jurisdiction of the Church.
Brother Dyer reported that in accordance with my request, he had made inquiry regarding the hiring of a Personnel Director, and had held a meeting with Elder LeGrand Richards, Chairman of the Personnel Committee, who called into the discussion the new man, Russell Williams.
Brother Dyer said that Brother Williams will work in close contact with, and be supervised by the Personnel Committee, of which Elder LeGrand Richards is Chairman. He is to be paid $12,000.00 a year, and will have in his department three employees. Further expansion of the department will depend upon the work placed upon it; for instance, if certain phases of the insurance program is given to it, additional employees will be needed.
Personal secretaries of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve are generally called directly without the Personnel Department service, unless they need help.
Brother Dyer said that in case of future expansion of the department, involving a change in inter-business management, he told Elder Richards that the matter should be brought to the First Presidency for approval.
President Smith and Elder Dyer feel that a letter should go to all committees who are over departments telling them that there should be no expansion of departments without the approval of the First Presidency.
It was decided that it will be all right to send the letter signed by the First Presidency to all department heads introducing Brother Williams. (See following minutes of the above by Elder Dyer; also copy of letter.)
Elder Dyer then read the letter which had come to me from Keith Wilson, Jr., Acting City Manager of the city of Independence, Missouri, regarding our Temple lot property, and their desire to develop a park on the ground if the Church is not going to erect a building and beautify the unimproved section of our property. This involves eighteen acres of the original “Temple Land”.
I had given approval a year ago, when the matter was brought up due to the fact that a Boys Club wanted the land upon which to erect a building, to go ahead with a Bureau of Information. For some reason, however, this project was “tabled” by one of the Counselors. Now, with the City wanting to make a park out of our Temple land, we must take steps to go forward to erect a suitable building, landscaping as heretofore planned.
I told Brother Dyer that I would hold a meeting with my Counselors tomorrow and tell them what we should do. Elder Mark E. Petersen of the Church Information Service is very much in favor of a Bureau of Information being built in Independence.
(See copy of letter from City of Independence, and our answer thereto following.)
Alvin R. Dyer – Attendance at All Meetings of First Presidency
Elder Dyer stated that I had announced in the Temple at the time I presented his name as an Apostle, that he was to attend all meetings of the First Presidency, and said it might be well for me to make it clear to the Counselors that he should attend such meetings, both when I am present and when I am not present. I heartily agreed with Elder Dyer, and said that I would so inform the Counselors.
Presentation of Woodcarving of a Gaucho
Just before leaving, Elder Dyer said that he had tried to present to me from Sister Dyer and him a carved wood statue of a Brazilian Gaucho upon a horse, which they had obtained in Sao Paulo, Brazil, It was expertly done by a member of the Church in Sao Paulo. I expressed my delight and pleasure with this gift which is an excellent carving. I thanked Brother Dyer, and told him to extend my appreciation to Sister Dyer also.
“Date: October 10, 1967
To: President David O. McKay
From: Joseph Fielding Smith and Alvin R. Dyer
Re: Director of Personnel (Department)
Attached will be found a copy of the Journal Record which covers an inquiry made in accordance with an assignnlent which you gave us.
The important caution which should be taken regarding this new department concerns any expansion beyond that which is covered in the letter dated September 27, 1967, which you have been asked to sign, and which is returned to you herewith.
Already there is some indication that this department will he expanded to include the handling of personnel insurance, and this may be a good thing. It is suggested however that any change or expansion of this or any other department should again be submitted to the President and his counselors for approval.
As it now stands the setting up of the Personnel Department seems to be in good order and will serve a useful purpose. Its continued usefulness, as is true in all good business procedures, will depend upon its close relationship through advisers, meaning the Personnel Committee, of which LeGrand Richards is Chairman, with the overall management which is the President of the church and his counselors.
What is true of this new department is true also of departments already established within the church business organization. It is our feeling that a letter should go to all committees who are over departments to this effect; its main purpose being to prevent any undue inflation of departments or committees over them.”
“JOURNAL RECORD OF ALVIN R. DYER
October 9, 1967
RE: Appointment of Personnel Director
In pursuance of the assignment given to me by President McKay in collaboration with President Joseph Fielding Smith to check into the
proposed workings of a newly appointed Personnel Director, I met with
Elder LeGrand Richards, the Chairman of the Personnel Committee.
In the course of our discussion Russel Williams was called to his office by LeGrand Richards and he participated in the discussions from then on.
We touched upon the important phases of need of the Director including the following:
Salary: Russel G. Williams is to be paid $12,000 a year. He will have in his department three employees, two of which have already been hired and the third yet to be hired. Further expansion of the department will depend upon the work placed upon it. For example, if certain phases of the insurance program is given to it, additional employees will be needed.
Jurisdiction: Brother Williams will work in close contact with, and be supervised by the Personnel Committee of which Le Grand Richards is Chairman.
Employee Control: Personal secretaries of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve are generally called directly without the Personnel Department service unless requested.
The thought was expressed and concurred in by Brothers Richards and Williams that normally department heads would present the names of certain prospective employees to the Personnel Department for services to determine the one best suited for the job. The response from this department would come back in the nature of a recommendation.
The Personnel Department will not hire or fire, but has been set up to render a service to all departments of the church which has from 1800 to 3000 employees depending upon which inclusions are made.
Department Heads do not come under the protracted service of the Personnel Department.
Future Expansion: We discussed the procedure and with which Brother Richards was in agreement, that any expansion of the Personnel Department involving a change in inter-business management should come again before the First Presidency for approval.
Personal Comment: I am impressed with Brother Williams. He is a High Counselor in the Grant Stake, a position to which I set him apart. I also know his brother Keith who until a short while ago was with the F.B.I. but who now is working with Jewel Pope at Bendix Corp. at Kansas City, Missouri.
He testified to me that he had no desire to inflate his department, and only wanted to serve the best interests of the church.
LeGrand Richards asked that we assure President McKay that they want to do only that which he wants them to do. He was most kind and courteous in discussing the whole matter.”
“September 27, 1967 (Letter held up by Pres. McKay, but sent at a later date after investigation)
TO: ALL DEPARTMENT HEADS
RE: Appointment of Personnel Director
Dear Brethren and Sisters:
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Russell G. Williams as Personnel Director for the Church effective October 2, 1967. Brother Williams will report to the Personnel Committee and will eventually be able to provide services in all personnel matters such as employment, wage administration, employee benefit programs, and training.
We shall appreciate your complete cooperation with Brother Williams and the Personnel Committee as they endeavor to formulate personnel programs that will benefit all employees at Church Headquarters.
Brother Williams will be located on the main floor of 70 East South Temple Street and will be available to provide services after a brief period to acquaint himself with the responsibilities of his new position.
Sincerely your brethren,
THE FIRST PRESIDENCY
By David O. McKay
Hugh B. Brown
N. Eldon Tanner
Joseph Fielding Smith”
“JOURNAL RECORD OF ALVIN R. DYER
WEDNESDAY, October 11, 1967
I met with President McKay. His personal. Secretary Clare Middllemiss was present. A report was made to the President concerning the inquiry he had requested be made into the hiring of a Personnel Director; to what extent it was needed and what expansion there would potentially be of this new department. (See attached memo and report.)
Independence–Improvement of “Temple Lot”
A letter directed to President McKay from the City of Independence, Missour, concerning the Church’s intention to place a building and beautify an unimproved section of ground owned by the Church there was read. This involves 18 acres of the original “Temple Land”. The letter indicated (See copy attached) that we as a Church had made such a commitment in 1952, at the time of the Van Horn High School incident, and that if we did not intend to do anything about it they would like to use it as a park and recretional area. This would of course mean that we would lease our temple land to the City of Independence.
It is well to note here that a check with former Presiding Bishop LeGrand Richards, and the present Bishop John H. Vandenberg, failed to reveal any knowledge of a commitment made by the Church to erect a building there. But regardless of this, with the approval of President McKay, a study has been made and approval give to erect a suitable building–favorably located with extended landscaping–so as to beautify a good portion of the land. A schematic elevation and plot was submitted to President McKay and approved by him. However this needed project with which I was deeply concerned was never budgeted and there appeared mixed feelings among the brethren about it. President Tanner appeared to be principally opposed to it.
This recent letter has now brought the matter forward, and the President directed that we go through with it.
President McKay said he wanted to hold a meeting with the Counselors the following morning, Thursday, October 12, 1967, and asked me to attend and present these two matters.
(Elder Mark E. Petersen’s Concern)
On this same morning, Brother Petersen came to my office and said he felt we should move forward with a Bureau of Information at Independence, but suggested that a smaller one might be built upon land closer to the Central States Mission Office. I showed him the letter from Independence. He immediately said, “This changes things,” and asked that I arrange a meeting with Emil Fetzer, from the Building Department, who had been assigned to work with me on the project from the beginning. This was done and a journal account will be given of that meeting later.
In my meeting with President McKay, this day, I presented him with a carved wood statue of a Brazilian Gaucho upon a horse, which Sister Dyer and I had obtained in Sao Paulo, Brazil. It was expertly done by a member of the Church and the President was very pleased with it.
(Suggested Clarification of my Status in Attending First Presidency Meetings)
I suggested to the President — with which he was heartily in accord –that even though he had announced in the Temple that I was, by assignment, to attend all meetings of the First Presidency, that it would be well to advise the First Presidency directly that I was to thus attend such meetings, both when he was present and when he was not present.
Minutes Approved by President McKay”
Thur., 12 Oct., 1967:
“Held a meeting with Presidents Hugh B. Brown, Nathan Eldon Tanner, Joseph Fielding Smith, and Elder Alvin R. Dyer, newly-sustained Apostle. This was Elder Dyer’s first meeting with the First Presidency, and he had come at my invitation. A number of matters were presented by the Brethren, among them were:
Alvin R. Dyer – Status in Attending Meeting of First Presidency
Elder Dyer asked me to clarify for the Brethren of the First Presidency his status in the matter of attendance at meetings, and as to what I had in mind for him to do so that there would be an understanding on the part of all; that he wanted to be where he was supposed to be and nowhere else. In response to my request that Elder Dyer explain the matter to the Brethren, he said that I had asked him to meet with the Brethren in the meetings of the First Presidency when the Counselors met with me. He said the question arose yesterday as to whether he was expected to meet in the meetings of the First Presidency when I was not present, and that I had wanted to make a statement on this matter this morning so that the Brethren would know that if he (Elder Dyer) came into a meeting of the First Presidency, he would be there by my appointment, and that Brother Anderson, Secretary to the First Presidency, is to advise him when such meetings are being held so that he can be present.
To Attend all Meeting of the First Presidency
Elder Dyer said that I had informed him that he is to attend the meetings of the First Presidency when I am present, as well as all other meetings of the First Presidency. Elder Dyer then turned to me and asked me if this understanding was in accordance with what I had said, and I said that that is right.
President Brown then inquired if it is my intention that Elder Dyer should attend all meetings of the First Presidency in whatever capacity. He said that Brother Dyer is not a member of the Twelve; that he is an Apostle, and asked me again what his status would be in the First Presidency’s meetings.
Called by President to be Assistant in the First Presidency
Elder Dyer then made the following comment: “I might say that before I went to South America, the President asked to speak to me about going there, and asked how long I was going to be gone, and I told him that I had four Stake Conferences; and the President said, ‘I want you to take these Conferences, and I am also advising (informing) you now that you are to be sustained as an Assistant in the Presidency.’ He then said, ‘This will be announced when you come home.’ He never said anything at the time about the apostleship, and this was presented by him in his own feeling, and the way he wanted to do it in the Temple, and I knew nothing about that (the apostleship), but he did make this other statement to me before I went to South America.”
President Tanner then spoke up and said, “As I follow you, Elder Dyer, what the President wants is to have you as his personal advisor and assistant.”
Elder Dyer: “He has never said anything about an advisor. I think what the President was referring to — you know the revelation about this — I have read it a hundred times trying to get my own mind straightened on this, where it refers to those who may be called to assist in the Presidency up to the number of twelve if need be, that they are to assist the Presidency as Counselors in the Presidency.”
President Brown: “Is that your understanding; that you are a Counselor in the Presidency?”
Brother Dyer: “That is what I am trying to — ‘And the Presidency of the Council of the High Priesthood shall have power to call other High Priests, even twelve, to asist as Counselors; and thus the Presidency of the High Priesthood and its Counselors shall have power to decide upon testimony according to the laws of the church.’ (See Doctrine and Covenants 107:76-82.) I asked if I should attend the meetings. I am certainly not an advisor, but it is within the realm of the President to call as many assistants, up to the number of Twelve, as he desires to be Counselors in the Presidency.”
Brother Dyer: “I have tried to think in my own mind the reasons President McKay presented me for the apostleship. Was it to give me the status of a position in the Counselorship to the First Presidency that all the other members hold? This was his feeling, and this is what he did on his own. That is the only reason I can see for it. He said, ‘Now you have the status and the blessing of holding the office of an aposte.’ I am stating this correctly, President?”
I answered in the affimative.
President Tanner: “Then Brother Dyer will attend our meetings whenever the First Presidency meets, and we can carry on that way.”
I said, “That is right.”
Brother Dyer: “In answer to President Brown’s question, will I be there as a Counselor in the Presidency, or will I attend just as an Apostle, or both?”
Will Attend Meetings as a Counselor
I said, “You will attend as a Counselor.”
President Smith: “He would do it just the same as I do it.”
President Tanner: “Brother Dyer would be here as an assistant and that is it, isn’t it?”
I said, “That is right.”
President Tanner: “If you are called by the President as an assistant, then that is it.”
President Brown: “You are his representative in our meetings.”
Brother Dyer: “You did not want to sustain me as a Counselor in the Presidency? Is this what you had in mind, or did you have in mind that I would be just an assistant to you as the President?”
I said, “You will be an assistant to the President.”
To Attend Meetings Whether or Not President McKay is Present
Brother Dyer: “Now I understand I am to attend the meetings as your representative when you cannot be there and also when the President is present.”
I said, “As you stand NOW, you are not an interloper.”
President Smith: “I am the President of the Council of the Twelve, set apart to that position; but when President McKay set me apart it was to be a counselor in the First Presidency, and Brother Dyer is called as an assistant to the President. Brother Isaacson and I were called to be Counselors in the First Presidency.”
President Tanner: ” Brother Dyer is called an assistant to the President.”
(Later, when meeting with Elder Dyer alone, President McKay said it was apparent that Elder Dyer’s status should be that of a Counselor.) (See minutes by Elder Dyer following.)
Independence – Property Matter
Elder Dyer mentioned that he had a matter that should have the attention of the First Presidency. President Tanner asked if it was something that should come to the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve as a whole . Elder Dyer said that it had already been before the Twelve and approved by the First Presidency; that, however, it was set aside for some future time. He said that Elder Mark E. Petersen has now presented the idea of erecting a small bureau in Independence, Missouri; that it will not, however, satisfy the situation so far as the city of Independence is concerned, that they are requesting the use of the whole Temple property that belongs to us. He said we have to decide whether or not we are going to put something on that property and if we are not, the city of Independence is requesting that they be permitted to do so. Elder Dyer said that I had suggested that perhaps Elder Petersen and he should go there because of an official letter (see diary of October 11, 1967) that had come to me from the city officials under date of October 3. The letter states that they are beginning a detailed study of open space available for their forthcoming park development program and consequently would like to inquire whether or not the Church still intends to develop the property due to the fact that the land in question is unimproved, and they would like to develop it as a park and recreation area inasmuch as the Church has discarded the program of 1952. Elder Dyer said that in 1952 when they started proceedings to condemn this land we gave them a promise that in ten years we would put a building on this property and would improve it.
President Tanner suggested that rather than try to rush this through at this time, the Presidency meet on Tuesday next to discuss it then in the regular meeting of the Presidency, and give it the time it deserves. He thought this would be better than to make a hurried decision.
Elder Dyer explained that this matter had been approved by the President sometime go. President Tanner said that if I feel that Brother Petersen and Brother Dyer should go there, he would be in favor of that, but he thought that a matter of this importance should not be rushed. I said that the matter may be discussed again next Tuesday.
Personnel Director
Elder Dyer referred to a letter that had been written addressed to heads of departments announcing the appointment of a Personnel Director. He said I had not signed it and would not sign it until I knew the full particulars of what this involved. President Tanner explained that this matter had been discussed in some detail on two occasions in the First Presidency’s meetings, and that authorization was given to bring this man in and inform him as to his responsibilities. He said that the letter in question was merely an announcement to the different departments so that they would understand. Brother Dyer said he did not think I was questioning the man, it was a question as to what the department would be and what its expansion might be. President Tanner explained that this man would be a director of the personnel under the Personnel Committee. Elder Dyer mentioned that this was a change of policy. President Tanner explained that he had gone over this matter very carefully, that Brother Richards had recommended it, in fact the whole committee recommended it, and that he brought it to the Presidency in some detail and approval was given to interview prospective candidates — that six men were interviewed by Elder Howard W. Hunter, Bruce Smith, and Lew Nielson; and everyone of them independently came with the recommendation that this man be appointed, and Elder Richards came and recommended his appointment. He said the salary he was to be paid was approved by the committee. Elder Dyer said that Elder Richards had said that President Tanner had set the salary. President Tanner stated that that wasn’t the case, that the matter came to him and he approved it upon the recommendation of the committee. After some discussion of the matter, it was decided to give it further consideration at the meeting of the First Presidency on Tuesday next. (See following minutes, also, written by Elder Dyer, sent in at President McKay’s request.)”
“(Minutes of Meeting Held by President McKay in his Office at the Hotel Utah with Presidents Brown, Tanner, Smith and Elder Alvin R. Dyer, New Apostle)
I attended, for the first time, the meeting of The First Presidency at the apartment office. President McKay was there. He looked tired, although better than on the previous day. The meeting was attended by the three counselors and Joseph Anderson, clerk.
A number of matters were presented by President Brown. Among these was a report that tithing receipts for the Church were up nine million dollars for the current period; that the Church for the same period had incurred deficit spending of 1.6 million dollars, but that other funds were available to offset this.
President Tanner presented a number of routine matters — one of which concerned KSL using taped footage of Choir renditions promotionally. Mr. Ike Stewart, President of the Choir, objected to this. It was agreed that such should not be done without approval of the Choir Organization; also that a letter to all Church agencies concerned be sent to this effect. President Brown wanted a direct letter to Arch Madsen of KSL, but it was felt that a form letter to all would be sufficient.
(My Status at Meetings Discussed)
I raised the question of my being present at these meetings. President Brown asked what my status at the meetings would be. I then asked President McKay to clarify my position for the good of all; (he had asked me the previous day to bring this up.) President McKay referred to the minutes of the Temple meeting when I was called to the Apostleship; that as an Apostle I was to attend these meetings. The question stood, in what capacity?
I then told of the President’s announcement to me before I left to conduct Stake Conferences in South America and Mexico, wherein he served notice that I was called to be his assistant, and that this would be announced upon my return. I then stated that had the President announced this in the Temple, I consequently would not have been surprized; but that the call to the Apostleship to fulfill this other assignment was a surprise, for I did not know of it beforehand.
I then read from the Doctrine and Covenants Section 107, Verse 79., wherein the Lord proclaims that as many as twelve counselors in The First Presidency may be called to assist; that it was my understanding that to be called as an assistant was tantamount to being called as a counselor. Both President Brown and President Tanner took strong exception to this saying that the President wanted me to assist him personally, and be his representative at the meetings of The First Presidency. President Smith tried to say something to agree with what I had said, but President Tanner said, “No, President Smith, you were set apart as a counselor in the Presidency, whereas Brother Dyer was to be an assistant to President McKay.”
It was very evident that Presidents Brown and Tanner did not want me to have the announced status of counselor in the Presidency. I believe, however, that this is what the President wants, and he feels in my assignment that this has already been set-up; but a more direct statement, as well as a formal announcement by the President is needed to bring this status into reality.
To Attend All Meetings
It was agreed to by all that the President in my call had instructed me to be present at all meetings of The First Presidency, whether the President was present or not, and that Joseph Anderson, the secretary to The First Presidency, was to notify me when and where such meetings are to be held. This President McKay affirmed in this meeting.
(Note: Further clarification is needed as to whether I am also to attend all meetings which The First Presidency holds with other groups such as The Presiding Bishopric — a meeting was held with them the following day to which I received no notice. )
I stated that unless I had the status of counselorship, I would attend the meetings only as an assistant to or representative of President McKay, and that my voice in any or all matters would be only when I met with the President alone in an advisory capacity.
President Tanner said, yes, this is the way it would be — that I had been doing this for some time now anyway. He of course was referring to the many times the President had called me to meet with him, and of the personal assignments I had received and had made reports to him on.
(Note: These instances have all been carefully noted in written form; the accounts of which are made part of this Journal Record.)
Comment:
But now, it appears that my status in the continuation of my support and recognition of the place of the President of the Church, should be adjusted to counselorship in The First Presidency; that I would be in position to continue what I have been doing and to also have a voice at any and all times in the councils of The First Presidency. As stated, this will require formal and direct announcement by the President.
It was about 9:50 A. M. when the President asked if there were any other matters to be brought up.
I then explained that I had two matters which President McKay had instructed me to bring up. President Brown then said the time of the meeting with the Twelve in the Temple was drawing near and there wouldn’t be any time to discuss any other matters. I answered that these were important and should be discussed. President Brown then said, “Are they more important than matters to be discussed with the Twelve?” My answer was that they perhaps were and the Twelve wouldn’t mind waiting for a short while.
By this time both Presidents Tanner and Brown stood up as if to leave and in a gesture not to discuss anything further. I simply said, to follow the wishes of the President these two matters should at least be mentioned; both were of an informational nature.
(The Hiring of a Personnel Director)
I then referred to the letter which had been prepared for announcement to all Department Heads of the hiring of a Personnel Director; that the President was reluctant to sign it until he knew more about it, and he had asked President Smith and me to check into the matter and report to him. This seemed to draw President Tanner’s ire to some degree, and he stated a little loudly that a thorough investigation had been made and all had been approved including the man who was to be the Director. I then said as I understood it the President was not concerned particularly about a new department nor that Russell Williams was called to be the Director, for he felt to accept the recommendation of the Committee, but he was concerned about the inflationary aspect of any department and just what were the possibilities in this direction with this department.
Nothing was actually resolved. At this time Presidents Brown and Tanner wanted to leave. President Tanner did ask the question as to why we did not come to him about the matter if there were any question instead of going to different ones asking questions. I told Brother Tanner that the only person contacted was LeGrand Richards, the Chairman of the Personnel Committee, and that this was certainly not out of order.
The point with which the President was concerned — of the expansion of departments into other areas without approval of the President — was never reached. President Tanner then said this matter could be taken up again and suggested next Tuesday.
(Temple Land Property at Independence, Missouri)
I then referred to the letter from Independence concerning the use of our Temple Land property by that City if we did not intend to put a building on it and beautify the area. I stated that Elder Mark Petersen had come to my office and expressed the feeling that we should go forward with the Independence Bureau and since President McKay had approved it there should be no delay. President Tanner said we ought to meet and discuss the whole matter; then it could be determined whether Brother Petersen and I should go back there to meet with the City officials. I said it seemed strange to me that when the President gave his personal approval to something that there should be any question about it. President Brown said that my analysis of some other things at Independence had been visionary, and so perhaps might this be. He did not seem to realize that what someone had said that I had said about the visit of President McKay to Adam-ondi-Ahman — and which was erroneously stated — had absolutely no bearing on the Independence situation. This expression of President Brown was no doubt made as a reaction to my calling to meet with The First Presidency and the inclination to discredit anything I might say.
The counselors and Joseph Anderson left to attend the meeting with the Quorum of the Twelve. I remained and visited with President McKay.
(President McKay Sees The Need To Make Me A Counselor In The First Presidency)
It was apparent to the President that my status in attending the meetings of The First Presidency should be on the basis of a Counselor.
I asked if this could be announced formally now or would it need to be presented at the next Conference. The President said that it could be announced now, after presentation to the Quorum of the Twelve. He also said he would so inform his counselors of this at the next meeting. The President seemed most anxious that I have the proper status to represent him at all meetings held by The First Presidency.”
Fri., 13 Oct., 1967:
“In Huntsville.
Independence, Missouri – Sketches of Bureau of Information Reviewed
At President McKay’s request, the following meeting was held by Elder Alvin R. Dyer vith Elders Mark E. Petersen and Emil Fetzer, Church Architect:
This consultation was held in Mark E. Petersen’s office at 2:00 p.m. Sketches of the Bureau of Information on the Temple Land at Independence, Missouri, previously prepared when the matter was being considered before, were viewed and discussed. It was decided to go forward with further preliminary sketches using the same building design; but to also add an outdoor amphitheatre to the south of the structure, and to plan for a softball field and playground to the east of the land near the mission home on Walnut Street. Elder Petersen commented that since the President had approved it, we should go forward with the project.
A letter is to be prepared to the Independence City officials advising them of our plans to build and to beautify the area, and that a representative would soon meet with them. President McKay had previously authorized that this be done and that I was to go back there to represent the Church in this matter.
(See diary of October 11, 1967, for copies of letters.)”
“JOURNAL RECORD OF ALVIN R. DYER
WEDNESDAY, October 18, 1967
The Counselors in The First Presidency met with the Relief Society Presidency at 9:00 A.M. in The First Presidency’s Board Room. I attended.
Sister Spafford reported on a number of items pertaining to changes in personnel, receiving approval for same.
She next brought up the matter of the continuance of her participation and membership in the National Womens’ Council. The question was raised for the following reasons:
1. She is usually in opposition to programs and projects. (Note: This is a supposed non-action Council, who give monetary and moral support to various women and womens’ movements.)
2. Organizational deficits are usually met by personal contributions by the so called ‘family’ or officers of the organization, (Belle is one of these) most of whom are wealthy women. She wondered how she could handle such a matter when requested. (Approval was later given to give $1000 of Relief Society Funds in order for her to maintain her place.)
3. This organization apparently is trending towards the support of various minority groups, particularly the Negro. (For example: An award was given to a colored woman who was called upon to address the Council — she responded with a talk on racism.) If the organization yielded to the support of pressure groups, what would her position be?
4. A Negro woman is slated to become the next President.
The Counselors felt that she should continue her place with this organization, for national and international reasons. I raised the question as to whether this matter of her continuance should not be submitted to President McKay for decision. President Brown stated that this same question had been raised before in President McKay’s presence, and he encouraged Sister Spafford to hold her place with this Council.
(This was later this day confirmed by President McKay at Huntsville)
As I see it President Spafford should continue for the following three solid reasons:
1. It provides an overview of what womens’ organizations in America are doing.
2. It allows her, while in good standing and respected therein, to voice opposition to any movement contrary to the Church’s concepts.
3. Through the National Council, international contacts are made possible thus to increase our Church stature and influence.
(Report Meeting — 1:00 P.M.)
I attended Stake Conference Report Meeting with others of the General Authorities. I reported my attendance at the Lyman Stake Conference at Rock Springs, Wyoming, on October 7-8. I also reported the Oneida Stake Conference at Preston, Idaho, on October 15.
(Meeting with Stake Presidents of the Proposed Ogden Temple Area)
Some dispute had arisen among certain of the Stake Presidents concerning the site which had been selected for the Ogden Temple — which is in the Tabernacle grounds. These feelings were conveyed directly to President McKay at Huntsville, who asked that a meeting be held at the Tabernacle in Ogden with the Stake Presidents of the area; that he would meet the counselors and myself there.
We left Salt Lake City in President Brown’s car. Eldon Tanner was the driver; President Smith, Joseph Anderson and myself completed the party.
We met President Albert Bott of the Mt. Ogden Stake and President Lawrence Olpin of the Lorin Farr Stake before going to the meeting, for the purpose of inspecting two alternate sites suggested for the temple by these two presidents — the one, east of Ogden just north of the Weber State College, on the hillside; and the other in the north part of Ogden on a choice piece of level ground, and somewhat elevated above the City of Ogden, which President Olpin offered to the Church at no cost.
We then went directly to the Tabernacle where 23 of 25 of the Stake Presidents were assembled. President McKay sent word by Darcy Wright that he would not attend the meeting, but that we were to meet with him at Huntsville after the meeting.
President Brown conducted, and went directly to the question — asking for a direct and frank approval or non-approval of the site selected by a committee chosen by this body of Stake Presidents, that designated the Ogden Tabernacle Grounds as the site for the temple.
The response as I recorded it by stake was as follows:
1. North Davis Yes
2. Kaysville No Site by Weber College
3. Layton No Either of other two sites
4. Clearfield Yes
5. Morgan No Weber College Area
6. Riverdale Yes
7. Washington Terrace Yes
8. Roy North Yes
9. Brigham City Yes
10. North Weber Yes
11. Lake View Yes
12. Weber Yes
13. Ogden Yes
14. South Ogden Yes
15. Sunset Yes
16. Farr West Yes
17. Box Elder Yes
18. Ben Lomond South Yes
19. Ben Lomond Yes
20. Mt. Ogden No Weber College Area
21. Lorin Farr Yes
22. East Ogden Yes
23. Weber Heights Yes
TOTALS: 19 Yes
4 No (Roy and South Box Elder Stakes absent)
It is to be noted that virtually all Presidents stated they would accept the site that President McKay would choose. There was a very fine spirit in the meeting.
Representatives of the Building Committee — Fred A. Baker and Emil Fetzer — both spoke in favor of the Tabernacle site; and this after careful consideration of the other sites mentioned. Brother Fetzer stated that the area for the Temple, including the entire Tabernacle grounds, would be screened from the outside, thereby adding to the sanctity of the place.
Presidents Tanner and Smith made brief responses of appreciation for the fine spirit of the Presidents. I was not asked to speak.
(Meeting with President McKay at Huntsville)
Leaving the Ogden Tabernacle at about 4:00 P.M., we traveled to Huntsville in the President’s car. We found the President and his wife Emma together in the living room watching television. Cherie, the nurse, was there. After greetings, we met with the President in the small office room. The President appeared tired and somewhat weary.
As we all sat down, the President said how glad he was that we were together, and it appeared to me that he was going to say more — perhaps to announce my place as a counselor in The First Presiclency; this same impression came to Joseph Anderson who expressed this to me while driving from the Church parking lot to Brother Anderson’s home in my car later that early evening. As I recall his words, which he expressed completely upon his own, he said, “I believe the President was about to make an announcement about your place, when he was interfered with by the brethren in reporting the meeting at Ogden.”
Thus, President Brown reported the result of the meeting with the Stake Presidents held earlier at the Ogden Tabernacle. The President seemed quite surprised that so many of the Stake Presidents favored the Tabernacle site for the Ogden Temple.
He asked each of us for an expression concerning it. President Brown stated he had favored the Tabernacle site from the beginning. President Tanner at first said he had no preference, but later said that the Tabernacle site was no doubt the best place for it. President Smith stated that he could see no reason why we could not worship God on a flat area as well as on an elevated area (the other two alternate sites were both on elevated ground.) President McKay asked for my feelings; in response I expressed myself as being content to have the President designate the site — to feel free to do this. President Brown then interjected, “Well we all feel that way.”
The President then said we should go ahead with the site as announced — which is on the Tabernacle grounds. Since the President designated the site, I then said I thought it was best as it would provide a complex at this site downtown to include the Temple, the Tabernacle, Genealogical Library and Bureau of Information; and this no doubt will best serve the over-all interests of the Church.
I then asked the question if the matter of the site for the temple, after decision, had ever been presented to the Quorum of the Twelve for their sustaining vote. President Brown spoke up and said this was not necessary and had never been done — meaning upon other temple sites — referring to the New Zealand Temple site.
(Other Matters Taken up with the President)
President Tanner reported that the “Days of Forty Seven” parade committee was in the red to the extent of thirteen thousand dollars in promoting this project, which according to him The First Presidency had authorized and recommended that the bills be paid. It was approved.
President Brown read a letter from Joseph Rosenblatt, who is the fund-raising chairman for a proposed addition to the Neighborhood House, on West First South, requesting a contribution from the Church. It was reported that 80% of the people using this facility from the southwest part of the city were LDS — (daytime care of children of working mothers, with some adult services.)
It was mentioned that the Church had never been asked for any money to maintain this place, but were being asked now because of a needed expansion.
President Brown was going to suggest $25,000 or one-fifth of the estimated cost, but President Tanner suggested 10% or $12,500. Each of us were asked to comment. I of course was very familiar with this operation, it being located originally in the 15th Ward where I served in the Bishopric for a number of years.
Now it has been moved to larger quarters at 1050 West 5th South because of the freeway. I stated that many of the LDS using the service were inactive, but that it did serve a worthy purpose.
President McKay approved the 10%, speaking highly of Joseph Rosenblatt.
The President asked if there were any other matters. I referred to a letter sent to Wilford Kirton, Church attorney, from George Reuland of Allis-Chalmers in Independence, Missouri, which letter was sent to me. Mr. Reuland whom I know very well, and a great friend of the Church, is chairman of a fund raising committee for the erection of an addition to the Independence Hospital — a non-profit organization operated by the Reorganized LDS. This hospital is the only one in that area and is consequently used by our people there. They are asking for a contribution of $3,000. I mentioned that once before we had donated $1,000. President Brown immediately spoke up and said this matter should be held in abeyance; that I should have submitted it to them (meaning the counselors) the day before at a meeting of The First Presidency. I knew nothing about a meeting of The First Presidency to be held Tuesday, October 17. I called Joseph Anderson on Monday, the 16th, to inquire if a meeting of The First Presidency was scheduled for Tuesday morning; and that if so I would cancel my BYU Devotional appointment. He said he was reasonably sure the President would not come down from Huntsville and he did not know whether the counselors would meet or not. At any rate I was not informed and thus fulfilled my appointment at the BYU.
Because of this I could not understand President Brown’s sharp remarks — unless he intends that any matter I may have for President McKay’s attention must first be approved by them before it is taken to him. This of course would be untenable, and indicates the need of being appointed as a counselor so as to have some say in all matters; not only those raised by me, but also the other counselors as to what shall be presented to President McKay for approval.
President Brown also said that the whole Independence matter should be discussed — referring no doubt to the Bureau of Information and grounds beautification on our Temple Land property. This is not understandable because the President has already approved this project, and as late as October 18, 1967, in response to a letter from the City of Independence concerning the land, he informed them that plans are in process for a project on the land in question, involving a building, and that I had been appointed to meet with City officials on the matter.
(Return to Salt Lake City)
We said good-by to President and Sister McKay — expressing our love and blessings. We drove first to Ogden where the party split, with Brothers Brown and Tanner continuing to Salt Lake together while President Smith, Joseph Anderson and myself traveled together in the President’s car.
Upon reaching Salt Lake, I drove Brother Anderson home. He was congenial, and this is when he made the statement that it looked to him that the President was trying to make the announcement about me — but his remarks were cut off.”
“JOURNAL RECORD OF ALVIN R. DYER
SATURDAY October 21, 1967
Clare Middlemiss, President McKay’s secretary, called me regarding the dedication services for the Salt Lake Temple Annex, to be held Monday, October 23, 1967, at 8:00 A.M. She wondered if I had been invited. I replied that I had not and knew nothing about it. She encouraged me to attend and I replied that I agreed with her that I should be there so that I could report to the President.
SUNDAY, October 22, 1967
Salt Lake Temple Dedication
Early on this morning I called President McDonald of the Salt Lake Temple to inquire as to the particulars of the Temple Annex Dedication. He said that President Brown was in charge, being authorized by President McKay, and had asked him to conduct a proposed one hour service Monday morning at 8:00 A.M. I asked who was to be present, and who had notified the General Authorities. He said President Brown had asked him to see that the Auxiliary Heads were called, and that he (President Brown) would be responsible for the General Authorities. I then told President McDonald that I had not received an invitation, but that I would be there.
Later during the morning I called Robert McKay and asked that he call Huntsville to ascertain whether the President knew that the dedication had been set for Monday. He said that he would later and call me back, which he did. He said that his father was resting when he called and it was felt he should not be disturbed, but LouJean had said that President McKay had said something about coming to Salt Lake City tomorrow morning if he felt up to it; that evidently he knew of the Dedicatorial Service scheduled for Monday.
I attended Priesthood Meeting in my home Ward and enjoyed meeting again many of the brethren over whom I presided as bishop years ago.
I met briefly with Emil Fetzer, a member of the Bishopric of the Monument Park Twelfth Ward, concerning the progress of the preliminary sketches for the Independence, Missouri, Bureau of Information. We set a tentative date of October 26, to go to Independence to meet with the City officials concerning President McKay’s letter to them.
During the morning I also visited the Neighborhood House, located at 1050 West 5th South. This center is truly serving a great need in the community. Included in its service are classes for older people in the training of skills for worthwhile hobbies; lectures to parents on child care; caring for children or working mothers during the day–providing these children with class work for pre-school ages; immunization shots, no doubt sponsored by the Board of Health. The present building has many class rooms but they are not adequate to fill the need. I feel the Neighborhood House is worthy of the help the Church will give to help build a new wing. It is a United Fund sponsored operation.
I spent some time during the day reading the new revised “Conducting The Oral Evaluation” Manual, making wording and phrase change recommendations.
MONDAY, October 23, 1967
I attended the Salt Lake Temple Annex Dedication held in the Temple Chapel on this day. I met President Smith and Jessie in the Church parking lot and went with them to the Service. The three of us rode on the little small auto made available for the purpose.
The Service started at 9:05 A. M., with President McDonald conducting under the direction of President Hugh B. Brown. President N. Eldon Tanner was present, and also President Joseph Fielding Smith. These, and the Temple Presidency occupied the first bench on the stand. I sat on the second — the only other bench on the stand — with the following brethren: Sterling W. Sill, Henry D. Taylor, William J. Critchlow Jr., Theodore M. Burton, James A. Cullimore and Milton R. Hunter. There were none of the Quorum of the Twelve present excepting Joseph Fielding Smith, who was actually there as a member of The First Presidency. (Note: When President and Sister Smith and I were in the parking area before the service, President Smith had a typewritten copy of the Dedicatorial Service Program. As he looked at it I heard him say, “I’m all mixed up; sometimes I don’t know where I am at.”)
The Chapel was filled to capacity. Many temple workers were in attendance. I saw Marianne Clark Sharp of the Relief Society, Florence Jacobsen of the Y. W. M. I. A., and Carlos Smith of the Y. M. M. I. A. There may have been more present of the General Boards. The Presiding Bishopric were not present. It was reported that they were out of the city.
The Opening Prayer was offered by President Joseph Fielding Smith, and N. Eldon Tanner of The First Presidency was the first speaker. He was announced as the one in charge of all temples. He told of the increased facilities made available by the Annex — making it possible to take care of more ordinance and endowment work.
Surprisingly enough to me, President Brown turned — I sat right in back of him — and asked if I would say a few words after President Tanner.
This I did, referring to the early-day Saints in Missouri and Kirtland who suffered great tribulation particularly in Missouri, where Zion is to be established; that when they were persecuted and driven, the Prophet Joseph Smith prayed earnestly to God for the reason for their expulsion from Jackson County, the center place. The Lord answered the Prophet by saying, “Be still and know that I am God,” — that the redemption of Zion and the salvation of His people were in His hands.
At the hour of great tribulation, came the promise of the endowment and many blessings to the faithful.
I told of the anxiety of the Saints in the last days of Nauvoo to go to the temple there to receive their endowments — risking much, since they had been told first to leave by spring, but then at an earlier time in the winter. Thus amidst the turbulence of persecutions and drivings, they wanted to receive their endowments before departing from their homes — before facing what they knew would be hard and difficult and many of whom would face death in the forced exodus from Nauvoo. Of course that exodus led to the settlements in this valley here in the Rockies.
And now what do we see in the expansion of God’s work throughout the world? The building of many temples, and here today the Dedication of the Salt Lake Temple Annex to make possible greater temple work.
I expressed my gratitude in being present, and bore testimony that the work of Our Heavenly Father would continue to go forward to fulfill His Holy purposes.
President Hugh B. Brown gave the Dedicatory address and prayer. He said that President McKay could not be there in person but was there in spirit. Among other things he referred to the prayer of the Prophet Joseph Smith in Carthage Jail, and also the Prophet’s declarations while in Liberty Jail concerning the few who are chosen from the many called. He also read a number of verses from Doctrine and Covenants 109, which is the Dedicatory Prayer offered by the Prophet at the Kirtland Temple.
President Brown said he remembered when he was very young attending the Dedication of the Salt Lake Temple in 1893, and was now privileged to offer the Dedicatory Prayer of the Annex.
President McDonald of the Temple made a few remarks at the end. He regretted that President McKay could not be there and expressed the desire that he and all associated with temple work wanted to do the will of the President. He thanked all who contributed to the Service.
Jessie Evans Smith sang “Bless This House”, and Selvoy J. Boyer of the Temple Presidency offered the benediction.”
Fri., 27 Oct., 1967:
“Independence, Missouri – Report of Visit of Elder Alvin R. Dyer and Emil Fetzer, Architect
At President McKay’s request, Elder Alvin R. Dyer, in company with Emil Fetzer, Church Architect, went to Independence, Missouri to check with the Independence City officials to ascertain just what their intentions are regarding our “Temple Lot” property if we do not undertake to erect a building and improve the land.
(See follow minutes by Elder Dyer for detail.)
(See also following newspaper clipping from the Kansas City Star in which the correspondence between President McKay and Mr. Wilson are reported.)”
“JOURNAL RECORD OF ALVIN R. DYER
THURSDAY, October 26, 1967
I had hoped on this day that I might have the privilege of seeing President McKay who was still at Huntsville. Upon calling his cottage there the nurse told me he was resting having concluded his breakfast; that he would be roused for lunch between 12 and 1 P. M., and then after another rest he was scheduled to see President Brown at 3:30.
Because of this I did not press to see him, although the nurse said if I would call at 4:30, and President Brown did not stay too long, I could perhaps come up then. But I concluded that this would be too tiring for the President, so I would endeavor to see him the first part of next week.
Lawrence McKay called later in the morning to say that he had heard that I was planning to see his father. (I had talked to Robert the day before concerning my going up; he had talked to LouJean who was leaving for home the next morning. They thought it would be all right although the President was still weak, but was somewhat better. This is why I called as I did to ascertain conditions. ) Lawrence said he hoped I would not go up to see his father; evidently Robert had mentioned it to him. I told him I had concluded that I would not attempt to see President McKay because of the visit of President Brown. He seemed disappointed that President Brown was going, even though he had discouraged it. He thanked me for being considerate of his father.
I spoke to the missionaries at 2:00 P. M., and met with Mark Petersen and Emil Fetzer at 3:15 P. M. to view and discuss the preliminary sketches for the project at Independence. Elder Petersen was well pleased with the sketches and wished us success in meeting with the Independence City Officials the following day.
FRIDAY, October 27, 1967
Emil Fetzer called for me at 6:30 A. M., and we departed from the Salt Lake Airport on United Airlines flight 164 at 7:20 A. M. for Denver where we changed to Continental flight 164 for Kansas City, Missouri.
Elder Kimball was on the plane to Denver and was going to El Paso to hold Conference. We had a pleasant visit with him between planes, showing him the sketches we carried with us. He seemed highly pleased with the whole thing. He related some experiences he had as a missionary many years ago in the Central States Mission, which mission I presided over from March 1954 to August 1958.
(Preparations for Meeting with Independence City Officials)
The letter of October 3, 1967, received from the City of Independence, and President McKay’s reply of October 18, 1967, thereto is made part of this Journal Record.
Several days ago I called Jewel Pope, President of the Kansas City Stake, advising him of the letters and asked that he arrange the appointment for Friday, October 27, and also accompany us. This he agreed to do.
Our plane arrived on time at Kansas City, and we were met at the airport by President Pope. Our appointment with Keith Wilson, the Independence City Manager, was not until 1:30 P.M., so we had ample time to visit for a short while with George Reuland, the manager of Allis -Chalmers, at Independence, who we fortunately were able to make contact with at the plant office. This visit was most pleasant. Mr. Reuland is a very good friend of the Church and a personal one to me. I explained in a brief way our reason for being in Independence, and he seemed very pleased with the prospectus.
He told of the growth of Allis-Chalmers at Independence, and even though the Church has leased them additional land there to expand, that it had already been absorbed and that they were thinking now more than ever of a greatly enlarged production run type of plant in an outskirt area.
(Meeting with Independence City Manager)
At 1:30 P. M. in the Independence Municipal Building we met with Keith Wilson the City Manager who had written the letter to President McKay, and who had in return received correspondence from the President (See letters, which are part of this Journal) concerning the use of certain of our property in Independence involving a segment of the “Temple-Land” belonging to our Church.
After greetings, during which time I learned that Mr. Wilson is a member of the Missouri Historical Society, of which I hold membership by specific request of President McKay, the City Manager explained just what the planning of the city was, which stemmed from the fact that Independence, a city of 115,000, (which is double the population when I last presided over the Central States Mission–1954-1958), actually had no civic parks. Their intention is to obtain land for this purpose and also to pursue a policy of encouraging other “open land” property owners to beautify and make green such open land; or for them to lease or buy that the city may do so.
Mr. Wilson spoke of two rather large projects they were at present undertaking; (1) involved the purchase of the Waggoner Estate of about 22 acres, which is about two blocks from our “Temple -Land” property, which they will obtain with 50% Federal funds through the National Parks Agency for the preservation and beautifying of “open land”, (within Metropolitan city areas. ) The house on the estate will be used as a museum. (2) He told also of the beautifying of the little Blue River banks beginning at Rock Canyon.
Because of this general planning, they were interested in the “open land” which our Church owned.
(Comment:)
It is to be noted here by way of comment; that when the Independence civic group approached President Kaiser of the Central States Mission with a proposition to lease certain of our land in Independence for a Boy’s Club or Home for one dollar a year, the letter of inquiry was sent to me. I promptly called it to President McKay’s attention. This is what led to the President’s determination and approval to proceed with the erecting of a Visitor’s Center on our “Temple-Land” in Independence. (See minutes of meetings with President McKay December 5, 1966, February 1, 1967, March 15, 1967.)
The matter was called to Elder Mark Petersen’s attention by letter from President McKay, wherein he was to request funds for the project. (See President McKay’s letter to Mark Petersen April 13, 1967.) The proposition met some opposition and it was thought advisable by Brother Petersen to present it to the Twelve before going to the Committee on Expenditures.
I believe it was President Tanner who suggested that the Church Attorney look into the matter of Church involvement re: condemnation of our property there — since it appeared from his and several other opinions that such would be the only reason for erecting a building there at this time. This of course became reason to them but to President McKay and myself it was not the prime reason, as stated in the minutes of various meetings already referred to. Also, and here is the mistake that was made by those seeking the legal status of our position there, I had said, (December 5, 1966, page 2, Item 1.) “The erection of our own building would tend to forestall any condemnation of the property.” I did not say it would prevent it. All that the attorney’s report pointed out was that the property could be condemned whether a building was placed on it or not. So the ones who did not seem favorable to the project — even though President McKay had given it his full endorsement -then said, if the property can still be condemned even if a building is placed upon it, then why do it. Actually they did not need to hire an attorney to find this out. I knew it before and that is why, as stated above, that a building on the land would tend to forestall condemnation procedures. And of course this is true, as the cost of whatever structure would be placed upon the land would have to be compensated for — and this would make it much less desirable for such purpose than would an “open land” area. (See my letter to Elder Petersen on this dated April 11, 1967.)
Now we have precisely the situation before us that I attempted to avoid in the beginning; that of the seeking by the City of Independence for the use of the “open land” area owned by the Church.
(Independence a Great Historic Center)
Our discussion concerning Independence in general led to the historic aspects of this center, which to us as a people, as declared by revelation, is the “center place of Zion”.
Mr. Wilson said that the Mormon Church had done little or nothing to preserve the historic importance of Independence; that we of all people had more to preserve and more of a story to tell than any other people. He then referred to a small highway sign directing visitors in that area to the R. L. D. S. Auditorium; but when the visitors go there they learn very little of what happened there .
I referred to the Colsville School Monument in Jroost Park, Kansas City, and to the many highway signs directing people to our Liberty Jail Bureau of Information. His reply was that he knew of these and they were commendable, but nothing for Independence, which center, if he had read the history right, was of greater importance for us as a people, not only for that which has transpired but for that which is predicted.
(Preliminary Drawings Shown)
We agreed with Mr. Wilson, and advised him that a “Visitor’s Center”, with beautified surrounding grounds, has been under consideration for some time, and we had President McKay’s approval to go ahead with the project. We then showed the preliminary sketches that had been prepared under the direction of Emil Fetzer of the Church Building Committee. These of course, as we advised him, were in the study stage but that we would soon be working on the actual drawings to be used in the construction of the center.
Mr. Wilson, it appeared to us, was very pleased with what he saw. He mentioned that this would be a great asset to our Church and to the City of Independence as well, and would in his judgement attract a great many tourists who now visit the Truman Memorial Library just a few miles away, which attracts 200,000 visitors annually. He of course was highly pleased with the beautification of the area surrounding the center and the outdoor amphitheater plan for telling our story.
Mr. Wilson intimated that a letter would be sent to us evidencing their support of this program and assured us that they, as a city, would cooperate with us in every way.
He requested a plot and elevation drawing of the project that could be shown to the planning committee, which we promised as soon as they were completed and approved.
Before leaving Independence for the airport in Kansas City, we stopped at the Central States Mission Office for a brief visit with President West. We also had the privilege of meeting Sister West at the Mission Home. I did not feel to divulge to President West to any extent what was being considered for the “Temple-Land” property. Although I did tell him that some planning was being undertaken for some of our property there.”
Thur., 2 Nov., 1967:
“8:30 a.m.
Held a meeting of the First Presidency in the office in the Hotel Utah apartment. Those present were: Presidents Brown and Tanner, and Elder Alvin R. Dyer. Some of the matters discussed were:
Independence, Missouri – Report to First Presidency by Elder Alvin Dyer of Visit to
Elder Dyer reported that last Friday, with Emil Fetzer of the Building Committee, he went to Independence, Missouri in response to a letter that I had sent to the Independence City officials in answer to a letter I had received from them indicating their desire to build a playground on the property the Church owns. Elder Dyer said they met Keith Wilson, the city manager who wrote the letter to me. He stated that the city officials are undertaking a program to improve and beautify all the open area in Independence. They have already purchased the Wagner estate, a 22-acre piece of land, which they have done with fifty percent government funds under the National Parks law. They are beautifying the property and building a museum on it. Elder Dyer said that he and Brother Fetzer presented to them some preliminary ideas of what we might have in mind, and they were very pleased to learn that we are contemplating going forward with a building project there.
President Brown asked Brother Dyer what he had in mind, and Brother Dyer said the building of a Visitors Center on the Temple property that we own and beautifying the area. He mentioned that some years ago the city had wanted to build a senior high school on this property and that the Church had given them $60,000 to avoid it, and at that time, according to their statement, some agreement was made to the effect that did not want to relinquish the property, but wanted to place something on it ourselves. Brother Dyer said that we have had two requests for the use of this land in the past two years, and the city manager had said that it is an amazing thing to him as a member of the Missouri Historical Society, of which Society Brother Dyer is also member, why the Church has never done anything in Independence because of the Church history in that area. Elder Dyer said that when he was President of the Central States Mission, Independence had a population of 58,000 people and that now, in less than ten years, they have nearly 120,000; that this past year nearly a
quarter of a million tourists visited Independence. The Church has about 5, 000 members in the Kansas City Stake, which includes all of Jackson County, Missouri. He said there is no question that we have to do something with the land, otherwise they will want to take it out of our hands. Elder Dyer mentioned that I had authorized him and Brother Fetzer to prepare something in the way of a schematic plan, that this was done, but it has never been budgeted, that when the letter came
from the Independence City officials, Elder Mark E. Petersen felt that because I had authorized it, they ought to go ahead and work up the plans. Elder Dyer said that the city officials were very highly pleased when they were told that we were intending to place a bureau of information on this property, and they said they would take no further steps as long as we were in the process of planning something to go on this
eighteen acres of land that we have, which is part of the original property of 63 acres.
President Brown suggested that inasmuch as Elder Mark E. Petersen is in charge of the Visitors Centers, it would be well to have him work with Brother Dyer; they to submit their recommendation. I agreed to this.
President Tanner asks Dyer if he had any idea as to the amount of the proposed expenditure, and he said that Mark B. Garff had made up the schematic drawing and presented it to me and Brother Petersen, an it was thought it would cost about $500,000. He explained that it would be a Visitors Center where we could present the story of the Church. President Brown questioned the wisdom of spending $500,000 for a purpose of this kind. He wondered if it could not be done in a more moderate way.
Elder Dyer said that the greatest tourist center in the world is in this area, that the Ozarks are not far from there and that last year over 22 million tourists visited the Ozarks. He thought there should be a concentrated effort to direct people to our proposed Visitors Center in Independence and then to Nauvoo. Elder Dyer mentioned also the Far West Temple site which he thought should be beautified and that other places of historic interest in that area should be considered as of tremendous historic value. He said he realized that the time for the building of Zion has not yet come, at least he knew of no new revelation from the Lord on the subject, but that we had done nothing to preserve the places of Church interest in that area.
Elder Dyer further stated that President McKay had sent a letter to Elder Mark E. Petersen requesting that the project go forward and that it be included in the budget for 1967-68, and that Brother Petersen had said that he would wish to present it at one of the early Expenditures Committee meetings. He himself has authorized the architect on the strength of my instructions to him to go ahead with the plans and get them ready at an appropriate time. Brother Petersen has said, according to Brother Dyer, that he wanted to point toward having a festivity in Independence on August 3 of next year when they would break ground or lay a cornerstone or something to commemorate the date the Prophet Joseph dedicated that land as a Temple site for the ciy of New Jerusalem. This was August 3, 1831.
Elder Dyer also mentoned that Wallace Smith, President of the Reorganized Church, claimed to have received a revelation from the Lord, to be known in their Doctrine and Covenants as Section 148. Among other things, this purported revelation refers to “the hastening time” and that the time is at hand “when the principles of stewardship accounting and Zionic procedures must be applied.” This, of course, in Brother Dyer’s opinion is a Satanic deception, but he said he thought the Brethren should be informed of this development.
(This last paragraph was reported by Elder Dyer, but not included in the minutes by Joseph Anderson.)
(See also diary of October 27, 1967, for Brother Dyer’s full report.)
The counselors then left the apartment to attend the meeting in the Temple with the Quorum of the Twelve.
Private Consultation With Elder Alvin R. Dyer
As the Counselors left the office, I motioned to Elder to remain.
Brother Dyer talked further to me of the importance of the Independence project, and I heartily agreed, stating that this project was of first importance, and that I want Elder Dyer to come back tomorrow morning and bring me up to date on everything pertaining to it.
Nauvoo Corporation – Report of Investigations
Elder Dyer reported on his activities regarding the Nauvoo Restoration, to which I had assigned him. His report included the discussions he had with Elder Delbert L. Stapley and Dr. LeRoy Kimball. He referred to a tentative arrangement that he had with them for a visit to Nauvoo. My instant reply to this was that it would not be good for him to go there with these men; that he should go, but that I should like him to go alone and get an unbiased opinion, and report back to me.
(See following complete report on Nauvoo by Elder Dyer.)
Note by Alvin R. Dyer:
As I left the President informed the nurse of his wishes to see me the following morning, and that I should clear the appointment through his secretary, Clare Middlemiss, for Elder Petersen and me to come at 9:30 a.m.
“(Report on Investigation of Nauvoo Restoration by Elder Alvin R. Dyer)
Nauvoo — Investigation of – Consultation – Discussion with Dr. LeRoy Kimball
On this day I visited briefly with Dr. LeRoy Kimball, the president of the Nauvoo Restoration Board of Directors. He apparently had an appointment with LeGrand Richards whose office is next to mine. I met him waiting in the hall, and since Brother Richards was occupied I invited him into my office. He said rather surreptitiously, “You’re the man who is supporting the Nauvoo project.” I replied that I was certainly not opposed to it if it were kept in bounds. During the conversation that followed, mostly in answer to my questions, I was informed that property purchases had been completed and that they were now engaged in restoring six houses. He did not say which, but obviously former res;dences of Church leaders. We spoke of the temple site; I expressed an opinion that no attempt ought to be made to restore any part or all of it — that the site could more suitably be landscaped with a proper marker or perhaps a small “visitors center”. Brother Kimball stated there was no intention to restore the temple in any degree. (Yet a certain publication — Improvement Era July 1967 -refers to a suggestion that the tower corner be restored to allow visitors to climb to an elevation to view the countryside and to get an idea of the grandeur of the temple.)
I expressed my feelings concerning the Nauvoo Restoration, which I feel primarily will preserve the image to some extent of that episode in our history, and can be made an important visitors center. However I have had misgivings for two reasons: (1) The manner in which four pieces of “Temple Land” property in Independence, Missouri, a consecrated land, which was never sold or traded by the Church previously, were given to the R. L. D. S. for a small piece of the Nauvoo site; that President McKay told me that in giving his approval those who arranged the trade had assured him that the land in Independence which was surrendered was not “Temple Land”. (2) That due to the fact that the R. L. D. S. hold some very key property in Nauvoo, the Mansion House, the Nauvoo House, and the small piece of land where Joseph, Hyrum and Emma are buried, our effort there might well accrue to a greater advantage to them than to us for various reasons.
My Feelings About Nauvoo
In answer to these two conditions Brother Kimball simply stated that he knew of the property trade and that the President must have misunderstood. Concerning the R. L. D. S. and their activity at Nauvoo, he felt that even though they owned the places referred to they could not hurt us, and that they were more or less behind the times and not energetic enough to do us any harm. (Of course, as to this we will have to wait and see. Knowing President Wallace Smith as I do, I feel certain they will make an effort to capitalize on what we have done and are doing to attract visitors, by pointing out their assumed place, since the home of Joseph Smith the founder is owned by them — falling into their hands by family succession etc.)
Tentative Plans For Nauvoo Visit
Brother Kimball said he wished I could go to Nauvoo so that he could show me what is being done. I told him that in the assignment given to me by President McKay concerning Nauvoo, that I felt the need of visiting the place, and perhaps in about two weeks this might be possible. Some tentative thought was given to this by both of us. Delbert Stapley learning of this felt that he also might accompany us. The planned visit however was not completely firmed up. (This visit with these brethren was later cancelled.)”
Fri., 3 Nov., 1967:
“9:30 a.m.
Independence, Missouri – Improvement of Temple Lot Property
Met by appointment Elders Mark E. Petersen and Alvin R. Dyer. They showed me the preliminary sketches that Emil Fetzer, architect, and Elder Dyer had shown to Keith Wilson, City Manager of Independence, Missouri. They explained the details of the sketches to me, as it had been eight months since we first looked at them.
I asked them several questions about the significance of Independence as the “Center Place,” the cost of erecting the Visitors Center, etc. I was very interested in the lay-out of the Center, and asked a number of questions as to the Location of the Central States Mission headquarters, how many members of the Church in that area; and where the Kansas City Stake Center is located. Elder Dyer explained that Independence is without doubt the greatest center of our historic past coupled with a revealed future; that there are 56 revelations which bear record of this.
After serious consideration, I reaffirmed my former feelings that we should go forward with the project at once, and said: “Let’s put the building up, and complete the work needed.”
Elder Petersen spoke of having a ceremony there on the land, either to “break ground” or “lay a cornerstone”, depending upon the progress of the work on August 3, 1968, which is the anniversary of the dedication and consecration of the “Temple Land” by the Prophet Joseph Smith, August 3, 1831. I gave my approval to this plan.
Elder Petersen stated that certain of the Brethren do not approve of the project; that even though I had directed a letter to him under date of April 13, 1967, the Project had run into a snag and was never budgeted. I asked who had opposed it, and Elder Petersen said, “principally, your Counselors”. Elder Petersen then said that he thinks a letter to them signifying my desires in the matter would settle the matter once and for all.
Letter to Counselors, asking them to get the Project Underway
I asked the Brethren to dictate a letter to my secretary, Clare, indicating what I wanted said, and have her bring it over to me in draft form so that I could go over it. This was done later, the letter finally approved and signed by me, and sent to Presidents Brown and Tanner, and Smith.
(See copy of letter following; also see copy of Elder Dyer’s minutes; also copy of letter of April 13, 1967.)
12:00 noon
Clare came over. She presented two draft letters for my correction and approval:
(1) Letter to my counselors, Presidents Brown, Tanner, and Smith, telling them to see that the Independence, Missouri project is completed as soon as possible, taking the necessary steps with the Building Committee to have the drawings prepared, and then pass the project through the Expenditures Committee.
“(Report of a meeting held by President David O. McKay with Elders Mark E. Petersen and Alvin R. Dyer)
FRIDAY, November 3, 1967
Independence – Preliminary Sketches of Building
Elder Mark E. Petersen and I met with President McKay at 9:30 A. M. As we arrived the President said, “I’ve been waiting for you.” He was in good spirit, and seemed alert and anxious to again discuss the Independence project with us.
We showed him the preliminary sketches that Emil Fetzer and I had shown to Keith Wilson the Independence City Manager. The details of the sketches were explained. It had been eight months since the details of the project had been explained to the President, so we went over them again to refresh his understanding. He asked two questions in particular. These pertained to the significance of Independence as the “Center place” and how much the Visitors Center would cost. These were answered, and it appeared plainly that the President just wanted to get the facts in his mind again.
He asked a number of minor questions as to the location of the Central States Mission Office in relation to the proposed Visitors Center; how many members of the Church in that area; and where the Kansas City Stake Center was located. These questions were of course all answered.
The important thing to note in his questions was the alertness of his mind, and the scrutiny he again gave to the whole proposed project. He seemed to again satisfy his own mind about the whole matter.
At length, he again reaffirmed his previous feelings that we should go forward with the project at once. He said, “Let’s put the building up and complete the work needed.”
We spoke of having a ceremony there on the land, either to “break ground” or “lay a cornerstone” depending upon the progress of the work on August 3, 1968, the anniversary of the dedication and consecration of the “Temple Land” by the Prophet Joseph Smith–(August 3, 1831. )
The President gave approval to this plan.
Elder Petersen then said, “You know President certain of the brethren do not approve of this project.” He suggested that the President send a letter to his counselors requesting that they do everything possible to see that the architectual and other work go forward immediately since he had given complete approval to it.
I reported that even though he had directed the letter of April 13, to Elder Petersen, that the project had run into a snag and was never budgeted. The President asked who had opposed it. We told him it was principally his counselors, and this is the reason we thought a letter to them signifying his desires in the matter would settle the matter once and for all.
The President authorized us to prepare the letter, which we later did in Elder Petersen’s office. It was thereafter placed into the hands of Clare Middlemiss for typing and mailing to the counselors.
Note: The letter was typed, signed by the President, and sent to the counselors this day. A copy is made a part of this Journal Record.
Before leaving the President, I reported to him that upon his advice, I would go to Nauvoo alone on Wednesday and Thursday, November 8-9, 1967. He approved of this, and he was pleased that I am going and would await a further report.
The President seemed pleased with our presence. He said it was good to see us together. We left after long and fervent handshakes.”
“November 3, l967
Presidents Hugh B. Brown,
Nathan Eldon Tanner, and
Joseph Fielding Smith
Counselors in the First Presidency
Church Administration Building
Dear Brethren:
On April 13, 1967, I addressed a letter to Elder Mark E. Petersen, Chairman of the Church Information Committee, a copy of which is attached hereto.
As you will note from that letter, I authorized the Church Information Committee to begin planning for a Visitors Center to be erected on the Temple land at Independence, Missouri. The building will cost approximately $500, 000, with furnishings to be added, which is in accordance with the preliminary study for such a Center presented to me by Elder Alvin R. Dyer, in company with Elders Mark B. Garff and Emil Fetzer of the Church Building Committee on March 10, 1967.
The plans as submitted were approved by me at that time.
It is my sincere desire that this project be completed as soon as possible. Will you please take the necessary steps with the Building Committee to have the drawings prepared, and then pass the project through the Expenditures Committee.
It is my desire that we break ground for this new structure on August 3, 1968, which is the anniversary of the dedication of this ground by the Prophet Joseph Smith.
Sincerely yours,
David O. McKay
President”
“April 13, 1967
Elder Mark E. Petersen, Chairman
Church Information Committee
Building
Dear Brother Petersen:
This letter is to signify my desire that we proceed at once with the necessary preparations and plans for the erection of a Bureau of Information Building on the Church Temple Land property at Independence, Missouri, in accordance with the preliminary study for such Bureau, which I requested, as presented to me by Elder Alvin R. Dyer, in company with Mark B. Garff and Emil Fetzer of the Church Building Committee, on March 10, 1967.
To secure the funds needed for this project, you are authorized to include in your budget request for 1967-1968 the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000), which represents the estimate of cost provided by the Building Committee. This is exclusive of furnishings, landscaping, and display media, the cost of which is to be arranged for later when the actual amount is known.
Sincerely yours,
David O. McKay
President”
“November 3, 1967
President Ernest L. Wilkinson and
Members of the Board of Trustees of the
Brigham Young University
Provo, Utah
Dear Brethren:
In view of the fact that Elder Alvin R. Dyer has been sustained as an Apostle of the Church, it is my desire that he be appointed a member of the Board of Trustees of the Brigham Young University.
Will you please take the necessary steps to have this matter consummated at the earliest opportunity.
Sincerely yours,
David O. McKay
President”
Tues., 7 Nov., 1967:
“8:00 a.m.
Sat in the chair at the East window in the living room, where the autumn sunlight brightened the room, waiting for my meeting with the Counselors.
As they came in a little before 8:30, I greeted the Brethren and told them how pleased I was to see them.
8:30 a.m.
Held our meeting in the living room. Presidents Brown, Tanner, and Smith, and Elder Alvin R. Dyer were present. Some of the items discussed, other than the routine ones, were:
Far West, Missouri Property
Elder Dyer brought up the matter, which had been discussed before with the Presiding Bishopric; namely, the placing of a fence around the Temple site at Far West, Missouri. He said it was decided to leave this matter with the Presiding Bishopric, Elders Mark E. Petersen and Dyer.
He mentioned that the cornerstones are fast disappearing because of the weather, and they are very important to Church history. President Tanner reported that in a meeting of the Presidency and the Presiding Bishopric, it had been decided to place a fence around this property and arrange for a proper entrance thereto.
Commenting upon this property Elder Dyer said that there should be a marker placed there to signify that sacred spot, indicating that there was a city there of nearly 5,000 members of the Church at one time, and that reference might properly be made on the marker to the revelations of the Lord that were received there; that the inscription on the marker should tell the story so that people who go there would know that we have not forgotten it.
The following sacred events occurred at Far West.
(1) South East Cornerstone is where Wilford Woodruff was ordained an Apostle and also George Albert Smith.
(2) The first great missionary journey to the Islands of the Sea left from this site.
(3) Many revelations given here — name of Church, tithing, etc.
(4) Father of President Joseph Fielding Smith (President Joseph F. Smith, son of Hyrum) was born here.
Meeting with Elder Alin R. Dyer
Elder Dyer and I had a pleasant visit. I clasped his hand as he talked to me. He said that he is going back to Nauvoo the following morning on the assignment I had given him, and would return to Salt Lake Thursday.
I told him that I am glad he is going, and would await a report on his impressions of what the Nauvoo Corporation is doing there.
Elder Dyer jokingly asked if I had noted President Brown’s statement this morning concerning the matters coming before me from him -“as it were from left field.” I smiled as I said, yes, that I had noticed it but that he is not to let it bother him.
Elder Dyer and I then talked about matters of mutual concern.
Church Administration – Inter-Administrative Groups and Bureaus Being Created
Elder Dyer discussed with me the rising number of inter-administrative groups or bureaus that are being created in the Church, with great increases in employment. (This did not refer to Priesthood Correlation.) He named the following:
(a) Real Estate committee — 30 employees
(b) Advanced Planning — 105 employees
(c) Buildings and Facilities Security Guards — 63 employees
(d) Zions Securities Corporation
(e) PersonnelDepartment.
He said that these committees, or groups, may be needed fully or in part, but as to why they are needed and the extent of the need, and under whose supervision they function, should be surveyed and analyzed. If they are found to be worthwhile in any degree, then systematic checks shuld be placed upon them, so as to watch interadministrative expansion when the same is not needed.
We discussed this matter back and forth, and I told Elder Dyer that he has my approval to a survey and study; and that he should prepare the necessary directive correspondence to the different departments to make this information available to me.
Brother Dyer reported the conversation he had had with Elder LeGrand Richards at a dinner table. Brother Richards, in a side conversation, told Elder Dyer of a meeting held in President Tanner’s office, wherein the hiring of a 63-man security force to protect Church property was discussed. Elder Richards did not seem to favor the idea. Brother Dyer said that he and Elder Richards discussed freely the rising number of church employees at the administrative head; namely, the number in the different departments, and wondered if the Church was not being loaded down with bureaus. Brother Richards said that President Tanner seemed to favor this sort of thing. He also wondered if the President knew about and favored these developments.
Elder Richards stated that the President must have had a reason for calling him (Elder Dyer). Elder Richards then said in a serious tone, “Sometimes I am glad that I am old. When I see how things are going in the Church, I’ll be out of it and won’t have to face what we’re up against.”
I said to Elder Dyer that these things had not really disturbed me to the point that I felt forlorn, but that I was hurt over the remarks made to the Council last Thursday by one of the Counselors that I am growing weaker, and was not alert, etc.
Elder Dyer spoke of Elder Mark E. Petersen’s statement last Friday after they had met with me — of the many solid and thoughtful questions I had asked for reassurance of the rightness of the Independence project on the “Temple Land”; Elder Dyer said that Elder Petersen is very loyal and supports me in everything. Brother Petersen is quite anxious to see how quickly the letter I had sent to the Counselors regarding the Independence Project would be followed through.”
Wed., 15 Nov., 1967:
“9:00 a.m.
Held a meeting of the First Presidency in my office in the Hotel Utah apartment. Present were: Presidents Brown, Tanner, Smith and Elder Alvin R. Dyer.
9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Report on Nauvoo
Elder Alvin R. Dyer remained at my request, at which time he reported the following matters on Nauvoo:
We first read together Elder Dyer’s report and analysis of the project of the Nauvoo Restoration, Inc. (See following detail report by Elder Dyer.)
After reading the report, I said that either Elder Dyer or both of us should meet later with Elder Delbert L. Stapley and Dr. LeRoy Kimball to discuss the five phases of the report.
Report of Meeting with Elder Stapley and Dr. Kimball
Elder Dyer later reported that on Sunday, November 19, 1967, in accordance with my desire, he had met with Elder Stapley and Dr. Kimball of the Nauvoo Restoration, Inc. He said he read the contents of his report to them, and that many of the items they concurred in wholeheartedly, excepting (1) The location of the proposed “Visitors Center”, and (2) the feeling as to the Reorganized Church — that their holding the key sites in Nauvoo is a definite factor to be regarded by us. Both Brother Stapley and Dr. Kimball felt that there is not too much to be concerned about regarding this matter.
Elder Dyer said their visit was pleasant, with a good feeling present. He said he stressed the need of Nauvoo becoming a part of the vast historical image of the Restored Church; but not the sole image. He mentioned to them the fact that Nauvoo had a historical image; whereas Missouri, in addition to such an image, is a place of the future; 56 of the reveations testifying as to this. Whereas none speak of Nauvoo as a place of Church destiny. He told them that virtually every President of the Church has spoken of the redemption of Zion and return to Jackson County, but none, to his knowledge, had spoken thusly of Nauvoo. He said that President John Taylor said that the Nauvoo property would come back to the people who once lived there, but there is no event of destiny so far as the Church is concerned connected vith Nauvoo.
Nauvoo — Report Continued
Elder Dyer then continued to tell me of his visit to Nauvoo, stating that his visit there brought forcibly once again to his mind the great sadness and tragedy of the condition of the descendants of the Prophet Joseph Smith; of the culmination of his valiant earth life struggle in the completion of the divine work committed unto him by the Lord. He had loved Nauvoo; the days spent there with Emma and his family were most dear to him. It was from Nauvoo that he went to his martyrdom at Carthage with his brother Hyrum. Yet, unfortunately, Emma nor his mother, or children, went West with Brigham Young, but remained to become part of the Reorganized movement years later. Tears could not help welling up in our eyes as we talked about it.
Elder Dyer’s Call as an Apostle
Elder Dyer talked about the Prophet Joseph and his family, and we discussed how as a Church we must ever keep the door open for whatever reconciliation might occur.
Brother Dyer expressd his gratitude for my understanding and support for what is now in the offing in the erection of a “Visitors Center” on our Temple land property at Independence, Missouri, and of what this could mean to influence members of the Reorganized Church; especially as to Temple work which will predominate the presentation at the Center.
Remembering the struggle there has been to get this project started, and of my determinaton to see it through, I said, “Yes, and this is one of the reasons for your call to the Apostleship; that you may continue your work in Missouri.
Brother Dyer said that since his call to the Apostleship, he has been receiving many calls to speak upon various occasions. He asked me what he should do about such requests. I told him to accept the invitations and fulfill them with my blessings. He said that the request had been so abundant because of the newness of his calling, but that they probably would soon wane. I said that I did not feel that they would as he had so much to give the people.
Brother Dyer then took his leave of me, and I gave him best wishes and blessings in his work.
(See following detail report by Elder Dyer on Nauvoo.)”
Thur., 16 Nov., 1967:
“8:30 a.m.
Held a meeting of the Presidency held in my office in the Hotel Utah. Presidents Brown, Tanner, and Elder Dyer were present. President Smith was attending the meeting of the Twelve in the Temple.
Far West Historical Site – Preservation of
Elder Dyer later reported that at my request he held a meeting on this day at 2:15 p. m. with Emil Fetzer, Carvel Davis, and Robert Dyer in connection with the planning of the Far West Historical Temple Site. It was agreed that someone from the Building Department of the Church should visit Far West before the preparation of drawings.
This matter was earlier discussed with Elder Mark E. Petersen, and Carvel Davis of the Presiding Bishopric, at which time it was agreed that we should go forward with the above meeting.
See copy of the Far West Prospectus following which covers the plan for the preserving of the site, and the placing of a marker on the Temple site, etc. Suggestions for wording to be placed on the marker given. This covers the important events that happened at this place and the revelations which were received by the Prophet in Far West. It also covers items on the preparations which were begun on the building of a Temple in 1837, telling of the excavation and placing of the cornerstones. The home once lived in by Joseph Smith and his family at Far West was torn down in 1886 and the logs used in building a stable. It was a one and one-half story building with a large stone chimney. (See notes following.)
Tues., 21 Nov., 1967:
“(Minutes by Elder Alvin R. Dyer Re: Discussion – John Birch Society and
Letter to Stake President in Florida regarding his participation in Society)
This matter, which was discussed at great length, concerned a letter that had come to President Brown’s desk from a Stake President in Florida. The letter stated that this Stake President and his wife had joined the John Birch Society and he was seeking approval to show a certain anti-Communist Society film in a Priesthood meeting of the wards in the Stake.
President Brown had had a letter prepared in answer which included the usual policy statement to members of the Church who make inquiry with regard to joining this Society. The letter already bore the signature of Joseph Fielding Smith. President Brown in asking for the President to sign the letter, suggested that the letter should be made stronger since it was going to a Stake President and not just a member. He intimated that no man should be permitted to hold the office of Stake President who is a member of the John Birch Society.
I asked what then was to be done about letters already sent to leaders wherein only the policy statement of the Church was used, which does not restrict. President Brown said he knew of no Stake President who was a member, except the case in question. I then said that it was my understanding there was, and also other leaders, and any letter sent to one should be sent to all for consistency sake. I also stated that the freedom of Church members, whether leaders or not, should not be jeopardized as this would be contrary to our principles. Any revision of the sentence in the letter in question should not carry a “must” clause.
President McKay said several times during the discussion that the Church has no affiliation with the John Birch Society. This was echoed by President Smith.
I stated that my views in this matter were different than President Brown’s, and while I myself would not join the John Birch Society, we cannot make it mandatory upon our people not to join. I further stated that I could see the effect that a Stake President and his wife joining could have upon the members of that Stake, and for that reason, and only that reason, perhaps the President should be advised of the delicate position he has placed himself in, which if he were not extremely careful would impose the onus of this Society upon the members of the Stake.
As the matter was left, Joseph Anderson was to re-write the letter. President Brown said, “Let me see it when you are finished.” I cautioned Brother Anderson that the letter should have no element of force or coercion in it. (See Report given to President McKay by Elder Dyer Sunday, November 26, 1967)”
Sun., 26 Nov., 1967:
“11:15 a.m.
John Birch Society
By appointment Elder Alvin R. Dyer called at the Hotel, and we discussed the letter that I had asked Joseph Anderson to prepare on Tuesday, November 2 , 1967, in answer to one of the Stake Presidents in Florida, who is a member of the John Birch Society, and had asked for permission to show an anti-Communist film to the Priesthood of the Wards of his Stake. (See diary of November 21.)
We discussed the policy statement regarding members of the Church joining the John Birch Society which we have been sending out to all members who have inquired whether or not they could join the Society. This statesnt says: “Members are free to join the John Birch Society if they so desire, and their membership in the Church is not jeopardized by so doing. The Church is not opposing the John Birch Society or any other organization of like nature, however, it is definitely opposed to anyone’s using the Church for the purpose of increasing membershp for private organizations sponsoring these various ideologies.”
Letters signed by both and the First Presidency have been sent out to a number of inquiries that have come from members and is now considered will regarding the matter.
Brother Dyer said, in light of the above statement, to impose upon any member who holds a position of leadership in a Ward or Stake anything beyond that which is intended in the statement referred to — that involves a “must” clause in order to holding position in the Church — would not only deprecate, but would deny personal freedom to the individual which would be contrary to the principles of the Gospel.
Brother Dyer quoted the Prophet Joseph Smith wherein he said, “I want the liberty of thinking and believing as I please. It feels so good not to be trammeled. It does not prove that a man is not a good man because he errs in doctrine.” (DHC, Vol. V, page 340.)
After further discussion, I said that I feel that the policy statement is adequate in answering the particular letter in question. I asked Brother Dyer to see Brother Joseph Anderson, who is preparing the letter concerning this, and that I wanted to see the letter so that we could go over it.
(See following minutes of this meeting by Elder Dyer.)”
“(Minutes by Elder Alvin R. Dyer of Meeting Held in the Hotel Apartment with President David O. McKay)
RE: JOHN BIRCH SOCIETY — Position of the Church Regarding
My purpose in going to see the President (11:15 A.M. Sunday morning) was to discuss with him the subject content of the letter which President Brown had called attention to in The First Presidency Meeting held on Tuesday, November 21, 1967, concerning the Florida Stake President and the John Birch Society.
I read to the President my own Journal Record of this particular matter, and also some special notes that I prepared — Concerning the policy answer which the Church used in answering inquiries. (See “Policy Statement Regarding Members of the Church Joining the John Birch Society”.)
The President seemed intently interested in all that I had said, saying that he understood the situation. He further stated that inquiries made should be treated on the basis of membership only, and that discriminative instruction to teachers and leaders making inquiries should not be treated separately.
If a leader failed to heed the counsel given in the policy statement, then such action would be treated as a special case, and could lead to loss of position.
I mentioned to the President, that as I prepared my Journal on this matter, it occurred to me how wrong it would be to invoke a “Must” upon a Stake leader in this case; that I felt I should bring the facts in the matter to him for his determination as to what should be done.
He was quite decisive in his feeling that the policy statement is adequate in answering the particular letter in question. I mentioned that I felt I ought to see Joseph Anderson, who is preparing the letter concerning this. President McKay said I was to do this, and that when the letter came before him he would call me so that we could go over it.”
“POLICY STATEMENT REGARDING MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH JOINING THE JOHN BIRCH SOCIETY
“You are free to join this organization if you desire, and your membership in the Church is not jeopardized by your so doing. The Church is not opposing The John Birch Society or any other organization of like nature; however, it is definitely opposed to anyone’s using the Church for the purpose of increasing membership for private organizations sponsoring these various ideologies.”
(Taken from a letter sent to Nephi K. Kezerian, First Counselor in the BYU Second Stake Presidency.)
COMMENT:
I believe the above statement to be adequate in answering such inquiries and should not be changed whether such inquiry comes from a member or from one who holds a position of Ward or Stake leadership.
My reasons for believing this are as follows:
(1) The above statement which has been sent in answer to a number of inquiries, reflects the will of the President in handling this matter, since such letters have been signed by the Presidency or the President individually.
(2) To impose upon any member who holds a position of leadership in a Ward or Stake anything beyond that which is intended in the statement referred to — that involves a “must” clause in order to hold position in the Church — would not only deprecate, but would deny personal freedom to the individual which would be contrary to the principles of the Gospel.
(3) To go beyond the spirit of the statement would be to place an onus upon that movement before our members and this in reality would deny freedom of thought to members of the Church. In connection with this the Prophet Joseph Smith once made this statement:
“I want the liberty of thinking and believing as I please. It. feels so good not to be trammeled. It does not prove that a man is not a good man because he errs in doctrine.” (DHC Vol 5 page 340. )
(4) Members of the Church may take the liberty, depending upon their political ideologies, of giving utterance in support of various issues; and upon the other hand may signify their opposition to the same issues. But these utterances are their own. Because one Church member may disagree with another on these issues, is no justification for the Church to give proclamation to that which would elate some members and antagonize others. (BYU Talk — Dyer, March 15, 1966.)”
Fri., 1 Dec., 1967:
“Did not hold a meeting of the First Presidency today.
“(Meeting of President McKay with Elder Alvin R. Dyer Re: John Birch Society and Letter to Stake President in Florida regarding his participation in Society)
In the thought of pursuing the matter of seeing President McKay, I called Clare Middlemiss, his secretary, and asked if she would arrange a meeting for me with the President sometime during the morning. She agreed to endeavor to do this and to call me.
Later in the morning I was called by phone and advised that President McKay was waiting for me. So I took my leave and went directly to the President’s Apartment. The nurse, Mrs. Noyce, let me in. The President was most gracious in his greeting, saying he was pleased that I had come.
I closed the door and then sat down close by the President. My purpose in meeting with him, primarily, was to discuss the letter, which was before him, answering President William C. Patten of the Tampa Stake in response to his letter already referred to in the Journal. (See November 21st and 26th.)
The President, in our meeting on Sunday, November 26, stated that when the letter in answer had been prepared, that he would call me and we could go over it together. This is what we did upon this occasion.
I read the letter to the President, slowly, calling attention to the last paragraph which in addition to the other substance of the letter which conveyed the policy statement of the Church concerning Church members joining the John Birch Society, stated;
“We, therefore, consider it inadvisable for presidents of stakes, bishops of wards, and others in Church leadership positions to become affiliated with the John Birch Society or other similar organizations, thus avoiding the influence such affiliation could have upon the Church membership under their jurisdiction.”
When I finished reading the letter, the President took it and read and studied it for quite some time. (See copy of letter attached.)
We then reviewed the reasons which we had discussed upon my presentation to the President on Sunday, November 26, as to why such a statement should not be made in answering President Patten’s letter. (See my notes on this, which are part of the November 26th Journal, expressing just how I felt in the matter, and with which the President fully agreed at that time.)
Here again on this day he was in full agreement that a class distinction of member and leader and of varying obligation, so far as the John Birch Society is concerned, should not be conveyed.
The President, unsolicited, said that the last paragraph amounted to telling President and Sister Patten that they should get out of the Society; and this he felt the Church should not so convey to them. Although they were under strict obligation to adhere to the policy of the Church.
I called attention to the President that many hundreds of letters had gone out from The First Presidency, some signed by President McKay alone, others by the complete Presidency, to various members — some leaders and others as members only. These letters, even in the cases of letters to Stake Presidencies, Bishops, teachers, had not included any such instruction as now proposed for President Patten; and to send this to him would be wholly inconsistent with the others.
The President then said that the last paragraph should be taken out before the letter is to be sent. The Church, said he, should be consistent in its instruction to the members. He handed the letter back to me and asked that I return it to Joseph Anderson to be re-typed — omitting the last paragraph.
We discussed the delicate position President Patten and his wife had placed themselves in by joining the John Birch Society, and that perhaps a phone call to him emphasizing the policy of the Church, and advising him that a letter would follow, would no doubt make the needed impression that the Church in no way should be involved in holding meetings or in distributing any publicity media, or to associate the Church as a Church with the John Birch or any other society. The President thought the idea of calling President Patten on the phone, in addition to the letter, a good one, and asked if I would call and talk to President Patten and explain the urgency of the Church policy in this matter. I agreed to do so.
Later that morning, after leaving the President, I took the letter to Brother Anderson and conveyed to him the wishes of President McKay.”
“November 29, 1967
(Letter to be re-drafted following the meeting with President McKay December 1, 1967.)
President William C. Patten
Tampa Stake
4305 Leona Street
Tampa, Florida 33609
Dear President Patten:
We refer to your letter of November 7th in which you report that you and your good wife have joined the John Birch Society. You inquire whether or not it would be appropriate to show to the various priesthood groups in your stake the film entitled, “The United Nations — The Peace Dove Unmasked,” which is a Birch Society picture.
It would be contrary to the policy of the Church to authorize the use of this film in the manner suggested.
In answer to inquiries that have come from time to time regarding the John Birch Society we have generally made the following statement: Members of the Church are free to join anti-communist organizations if they desire and their membership in the Church is not jeopardized by so doing. The Church is not opposing the John Birch Society or any other organization of like nature; however, it is definitely opposed to anyone’s using the Church for the purpose of increasing membership for private organizations sponsoring these various ideologies.
We, therefore, consider it inadvisable for presidents of stakes, bishops of wards, and others in Church leadership positions to become affiliated with the John Birch Society or other similar organizations, thus avoiding the influence such affiliation could have upon the Church membership under their jurisdiction.
Sincerely yours,
THE FIRST PRESIDENCY”
Dialogue
I also read to the President an article which appeared in Time Magazine in 1966, concerning the quarterly magazine “Dialogue”. Elder Benson had advised me that the continued publication of the magazine, and of its liberal content, was a matter of discussion in the Quorum of the Twelve meeting on Thursday, November 30. The President was both interested and surprised at the content of the Time Magazine article.
Tues., 5 Dec., 1967:
(Elder Mark E. Petersen and I Meet With The President)
Re: Pamphlet Containing October Conference Address
After returning to my office from The First Presidency meeting, I learned from Clare Middlemiss, the secretary of President McKay, that the pamphlets which contained the main address of President McKay at the October Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of this year, upon printing had been delivered to the PBO distribution center but had never been sent out to Stake Presidencies and Bishoprics. This distribution was the intent of those concerned with its publishing, spearheaded by Elder Mark E. Petersen who was very much concerned at the whole matter. Apparently Presidents
Brown and Tanner had deliberately held them up. Because of this Elder Petersen wanted to seek the counsel of President McKay in the matter.
I also, with Clare Middlemiss, felt that the letter to President Patten of the Tampa Stake would be brought up by the counselors on Wednesday morning, and not being there myself, the counselors may push it through.
I asked Clare Middlemiss to arrange a meeting for me with President a McKay, and if Mark Petersen had not already seen the President, that we could go together and each take up our separate matters with him. Sister Middlemiss called me back later with the information that President and Sister McKay were being driven to Huntsville for a change by their son Lawrence, but that he would be back later that day and we could see him at 3:45 P. M.
3:45 p. m – Meeting with Elders Alvin R. Dyer and Mark E. Petersen
We were there precisely at the scheduled time to find the President seated in his office, looking and feeling especially fine. I spoke a little German to him “Wie Geht Es Ihnen Herr President.” He replied quick as a flash, “Sehr gut, sehr gut.” He said he had enjoyed the ride to Huntsville very much. Brother Petersen told him how well he looked. The President replied by saying that he would like to go horseback riding, but wasn’t sure whether he could get on or not.
Pamphlet of October Conference Address
Elder Petersen presented his matter first at my request. He called President McKay’s attention to the pamphlet that had been printed of his Conference talk; that it had been approved to mail them to various Church leaders, but that this had never been done, and they couldn’t do much good stored in the PBO distribution. I commented that they were just a stack of paper unless they were sent out to the Church Stake and Ward leaders. The President asked why this had not been done. Elder Petersen then related his conversation with Bishop Vandenberg, who said they were waiting for approval from The First Presidency to mail them.
Elder Petersen had typed a proposed letter to Bishop Vandenberg from the President authorizing that they be shipped immediately. The President gave approval to have Clare Middlemiss prepare the letter for his signature. (See copy of letter following)
Letter Re: Joining John Birch Society by Stake President, Bishops, etc
I next discussed my matter with the President, referring to the letter that had been prepared for mailing to President Patten of the Tampa Stake, contained in which was a paragraph, the last, that the President wanted deleted. I reported to the President that I had requested Joseph Anderson to re-type the letter with the deletion as requested, but that he had not done it but had turned it over to President Tanner; that it no doubt would be brought back before him on the morrow, and that I would not be present to advise him of it. I had a copy of the letter and the President read it again, and said to Mark Petersen, “What do you think about it?” (I had showed the letter to Mark before our meeting.) His answer was, “I agree with Alvin, that last paragraph should not be in the letter.”
The President said, “I fully agree”, and asked that I again request Brother Anderson to prepare the letter without the last paragraph. I said he no doubt will not do it unless he is told to do so by the counselors. This irked President McKay and he said, “Who is Joseph Anderson; he is to do what he is told.” I agreed to convey the President’s wishes to Joseph Anderson a second time.
.
Having completed the purpose of our visit with the President, we rose to leave. But the President said, “What is your hurry?” We both replied that we were in no hurry but did not want to tire him. He said, “Sit down with me, it feels so good to have you both here.” We stayed another precious 15 or so minutes with the President. It was most enjoyable. The President looked better and seemingly felt better than for many weeks; Elder Petersen said two years.
President McKay again said to us, “They think I am a sick man; but I am not, tell them I am not sick!”
Elder Petersen spoke of the Christmas lighting on Temple Square and invited President McKay to be present when the lights were switched on. The President replied he would look forward to attending.
When we did leave, the President said how happy he was that we had come. I told him that it was like “hitting the jackpot” twice in one day for me. He asked me when I would be back from my trip on Wednesday. I told him late on the same day. He said that was fine and that he would see me when I returned.
I left Elder Petersen in the Hotel Foyer and went to Joseph Anderson’s office, where I again advised him of the President’s wishes. He confirmed that Elder Tanner was going to bring up the matter before the President since, as Brother Anderson said, President McKay had approved extending the original letter to President Patten and thus it should go back for clarification. I said that the President nor did I ever agree to the addition of such a paragraph. I suggested that if they were going to take it to the President again, that they should prepare the letter as it originally was. But this he seemed reluctant to do.”
“December 5, 1967
Bishop John H. Vandenberg
Church Administration Building
Salt Lake City, Utah
Dear Bishop Vandenberg:
This is your authority to mail to the Stake and Mission Presidents the pamphlets containing my address given at the last General Conference of the Church, with instruction to have one delivered to each Latter-day Saint home by the Home Teachers.
The pamphlets should be distributed immediately, with instruction that the Home Teachers should deliver them during their regular visits in January of 1968.
I shall appreciate your cooperation in this matter.
Sincerely yours,
David O. McKay
President”
Tues., 12 Dec., 1967:
“8:30 a.m.
Held a meeting with the Counselors. Some of the matters discussed were:
Visit of Elder Dyer to the First Presidency of the Reorganized Church
Elder Dyer reported his visit to the First Presidency of the Reorganized Church at Independence, Missouri.
(See copy of report following.)
Far West, Missouri
Elder Dyer made reference to the need of setting up a new lease for the farmer on our Far West, Missouri land, excluding that area which will be needed for the work to be done at the Temple site. We agreed that the lease is to be for five years with optional privileges to the Church.
Elder Dver – Commendation for his work
After listening to Elder Dyer’s report on his visit to Independence, Far West, etc., and recommendations pertaining thereto, I said to Elder Dyer as he was leaving, “You are doing a wonderful work — keep going.” Elder Dyer said that he is trying to keep the goodwill of the leaders of the Reorganized Church, thinking that in the long run it will end in good for all concerned.
Held no more meetings today.”
“WEDNESDAY, December 6, 1967
VISIT TO INDEPENDENCE – LIBERTY – FAR WEST, MISSOURI
This was a most memorable day during which I again visited Independence, Liberty, and Far West, Missouri.
Emil Fetzer and I left the Salt Lake Airport at 8:20 A.M. on the new UAL non-stop flight to Kansas City, arriving there at 11:15 A.M. Jewel Pope, the President of the Kansas City Stake, met us and was with us until our departure in the late evening. Keith Wilson, the Independence City Manager, also met us and we stopped for lunch at the Airport.
This time spent together was most profitable, as we discussed the development of Church plans for the Visitors Center on the Temple Land property in Independence. Mr. Wilson continues most enthused about this project, and as before offered such help as we may need from the city. He stressed what I believe to be an important point; that the center include a museum room. This would create much interest for a different type of visitor. The Missouri Historical Society would surely get behind such an attraction. Keith Wilson said that he and the city would help us with collections for the room.
(Meeting with The First Presidency of The R.L.D.S.)
Following lunch, and leaving Keith Wilson in Kansas City, we went directly to the R.L.D.S. Auditorium in Independence where by appointment we met for about 45 minutes with President W. Wallace Smith and his counselors, Presidents ____ and _____.
President Srnith seemed less outgoing than upon my previous meetings with him. I was soon to learn the reason for this however. The placement of the Sewage Disposal plant at Nauvoo, immediately next to their historic holdings there, without, as he claimed, in its initial determinations their representations, appeared to be one thing that disturbed him, since Brother Ravsten, our man there, was in on the original discussions and had approved the location. President Srnith claimed that when they did get in on it it was almost too late to properly represent themselves. However theirs and other later efforts succeeded in getting it moved a distance of some 1500 feet from the Joseph, Emma, and Hyrum Srnith Memorial Cemetery, and also the installing of a pump as part of the planning. President Smith said that they were fearful of pump failure upon occasion as well as the odors that naturally come from such an installation, and this would be detrimental to their historic sites there, while such location would not so hamper the historic places that we have.
I asked what I might do, if anything, but he seemed reluctant to ask, saying that they were trying to solve their problem and were working with a Mr. Myers, an engineer, but it was largely a matter of making the best of a bad situation. It appeared to him that we had come off best on the deal, and he hinted that we saw to it.
These of course were his contentions, but there are always two sides to an issue. I determined to look into it.
The other thing that seemingly irked President Smith was the handling of the Papyrus pertaining to the Pearl of Great Price which we received from the Metropolitan Museum; that the R. L. D. S. and particularly himself should have been included in the transaction. He did not mean that they should have received the papyrus, but the least we could have done would have been to inform him, and make known his identity as the grandson and son respectively.
Sensing this feeling I presented President Smith with a set of pictures of the papyrus and a copy of the original letter signed by Emma Bidamon former wife of Joseph Smith, and Joseph the Third his son.
Other than these two things our visit was most congenial. President Smith congratulated me on my call to the Apostleship, and said that they had had some discussion about it, asking how my call fitted in. I explained it and he said that this is truly a great honor.
I advised them of our intentions to beautify the Far West Temple site with appropriate markers; that we were going there for dimensional data that day. He asked if I had seen the marker they put on their property there. I told him I had and thought that it was well done.
I mentioned to President Smith that we were interested in obtaining a copy of the “Book of Abraham” which contained the original printing of the Prophet’s translation of the Egyptian papyrus. He asked that I write to their Church Historian about this.
As we left the Presidency with warm handshakes, President Smith asked that I carry his greetings to President McKay. I mentioned that it was my understanding that their Presiding Patriarch Cheville was meeting with President McKay in Salt Lake City this day. He said that he knew; that the Patriarch got around quite a bit.
Before leaving the Auditorium we met with Don Benton of their legal department who briefed us on the sewage disposal problem at Nauvoo, and somewhat of their feelings in the matter. He gave Brother Fetzer a folder with much detailed information concerning it.
(Liberty Jail)
On our way to Far West we stopped at the Jail Visitors Center at Liberty. There were four missionaries there. I was very pleased with our display. The mural was in place and looked acceptable. Improved lighting on the stone revelation carving is a great improvement. The new north room is a real asset to this very fine center.
(Far West)
At Far West we took many measurements of the Temple site to determine just which section of land will be fenced, and also determined the probable location of the markers. We also layed out the parking and picnic area to the west of the Temple site, which will be entered from County Highway “D” on the west.
As upon my previous visits to this sacred place, I again got a strong feeling of its sacredness and vital importance. I mentioned this to Jewel Pope.
(Return Home)
It was getting dark as we left Far West. We returned to Kansas City, and at 8:35 P. M. boarded a UAL flight, having said goodbye to President Pope. The weather at 54° with very slight precipitation enabled us to accomplish our purpose for going to Far West. We arrived home at 9:50 P.M. The temperature was 19°.”
“(Minutes of Meeting with The First Presidency in the Hotel Apartment)
JOURNAL RECORD OF ALVIN R. DYER
WEDNESDAY, December 13, 1967
At 8:30 A. M. I met with The First Presidency. President McKay attended and seemed well and was alert, participating in the discussion that ensued.
(Professor Aziz S. Atiya Attends the Meeting)
By arrangement, Professor Aziz S. Atiya was present. He gave President McKay a first hand report of the discovery of the Papyrus, referred to previously in this Journal, at the Metropolitan Museum in New York City, and of the series of events leading to it being given to the Church.
He expressed himself as associating this experience as the crowning achievement of his life. He spoke of his Coptic studies and of a book he would soon have published. He promised a copy to President McKay. (Note: Coptic studies refers to the teachings and beliefs of an ancient Egyptian Christian by the name of Copt, who lived in the pre-Nicean period.)
Professor Atiya spoke very feelingly to President McKay, recalling their previous meetings. When President Brown said that President McKay was the greatest man in the Church, Professor Atiya was quick to add, “In the whole world!”
President McKay gave deep expression of the appreciation he and the Church had for that which the Professor had done — being instrumental in the return of the Papyri to the Church — bringing them “back home” as the Professor put it.
President McKay asked if there were any expenses he had incurred that the Church could reimburse. The Professor said that what he had done in time and money was his gift to the Church, which he regarded too highly.
All of us joined the President in expressing appreciation for his unselfish accomplishment.
Professor Atiya left shortly after 9:00 A.M.
We remained to discuss the Book of Abraham Papyrus further and to also have a most meaningful discussion concerning manuscripts and records of early Church history.
(Letter from Wallace Smith)
I read a portion of a letter received yesterday from Wallace Smith, president of the R.L.D.S. (copy made a part of this Journal) The letter expressed appreciation an receiving pictures of the Papyri, and the letter of Emma and his father Joseph Smith the Third.
(Records of Early Church History)
I mentioned that the Historians Office of the R. L. D. S. has never been kept in good order, but that a new Historian has been appointed who is endeavoring to see what records they do have. This was stated to me by President Wallace Smith when I visited him on December 6, 1967, at Independence.
I reported briefly to President McKay that the R. L. D. S. no doubt have some records of early Church history that we do not have; mentioning specifically the following:
l. The manuscripts of Philander Page given to him by his father John E. Page — no doubt the same manuscripts which John Whitmer refused to turn over to
Joseph Smith.
2. Records that Emma Smith had in her possession.
3. Book of Abraham – initial publishing. (Manuscript?)
4. Bible used by Joseph Smith in his revision.
5. Hand written copy of the Book of Mormon.
I mentioned that I still had hopes of getting a copy of the Book of Abraham.
President Joseph Fielding Smith said that the records which the Prophet Joseph Smith had — his journal etc. — came down to our Church, and that except for the records which Emma Smith had in her own possession and the few that John Whitmer withheld, (that I referred to earlier), which the Church never got possession of, we possess the major part of the historical records.
I said that this is one of the reasons I had tried to keep my foot in the door of the R.L.D.S. so as to possibly have access to any records which they may find in the work they are doing in the Historians Office. President McKay very alertly listened to all that was said, commenting that I should get more than my foot in the door of the R.L.D.S. I stated that I was trying to keep their goodwill and that the letter from President Wallace Smith to me was evidence of his good feeling toward me. President McKay then said that all of this was very important and that he wanted a listing of the historical documents that we did have in our archives. President Joseph Fielding Smith was asked to prepare this listing.
Presidents Brown and Tanner both expressed themselves that this would be a good thing — that they too wished to be informed on this.
I also called attention to the fact that the “Inspired Version” of the Holy Bible, representing a translation and revision made by Joseph Smith, was authentic only if the publishing was the 1867 or prior editions; that all later editions had been altered to some degree by the Editors of the R.L.D.S. Herald Press; that since we were selling the “Inspired Version” in our book stores, we should determine to what extent the current editions differ from the l867 and prior editions.
It was agreed that this should be done, but where to get a copy of the 1867 edition. I reported obtaining a copy for Elder Stapley when I was it presiding over the Central States Mission; that I obtained it from President Israel Smith. President McKay asked that I obtain the copy from Brother Stapley for the comparison study.
All agreed that this had been a momentous meeting; both for the report of Professor Aziz S. Atiya, and for the discussion we had concerning historical records and the revised Inspired Version” of the Holy Bible.
It was nearly 10:00 A.M. when we left the President’s side. It was inspirational to partake of his direction and great spirit.
(CONFIDENTIAL and SACRED Nature of Things Discussed)
Before leaving the President, he said that this had been a most important meeting and that the subjects of discussion should be kept most confidential and that the matters discussed should be pursued as directed.
As always the President warmly greeted me, saying how very pleased he was that I was present. I am always most humbly cognizant of this great man and desire only to do those things in harmony with his wishes.
There was truly a good spirit in this meeting which I am sure all of us felt. I walked to and from the meeting with President Smith.”
Fri., 15 Dec., 1967:
“8:30 a.m.
Held a meeting with my counselors and Elder Alvin R. Dyer in the office in the Hotel Utah apartment. President Tanner was not present, and President Isaacson was excused because of his illness.
Holy Bible – Inspired Version
Elder Dyer, responding to the assignment given him by me, reported further on the publication of the Holy Scriptures — Inspired Version. He stated that as is known, the first edition, published by the Reorganized Church, came out in 1867. It was followed by subsequent printings. In 1944, a new “corrected version” was published, in which a number of textual changes were made from earlier editions.
He mentioned that the Inspired Version or revision is being used quite extensively by our people. Of latest report, 2,500 copies have been sold this year. And also from reports the sales are increasing. It is doubtful that our members know of the changes that have been made.
He stated that it appears that we have three possibilities:
(1) To say nothing about the matter — to leave it as it is.
(2) Investigate the copyrights of the Reorganized Church’s publishings — with the thought of publishing an Inspired Version of our own after researching to determine authenticity. (This would be difficult since we do not have the Prophet’s original writings.)
(3) To stop all handling by any Church bookstores of the mutated editions of the so-called Inspired Version as published by the Reorganized Church.
I asked Elder Dyer to the investigation and report back to us.”
Tues., 19 Dec., 1967:
“8:30 a.m.
Held a meeting with Presidents Brown, Tanner and Smith, and Elder Dyer.
Reorganized Church Historical Items
Elder Dyer mentioned that he had received a letter from the historian of the Reorganized Church regarding items that they had in their historian’s office archives that might be of value to us. He felt that we are approaching a time when the Reorganized Church people will let us have access to read these documents and ascertain what they have. Their historian in his letter, expresses the hope that the feeling to let us have access to their documents will be reciprocated by us. President Smth said that we have shown them many documents that we have in the Historian’s Office. Elder Dyer said that the thing that seemed to influence this attitude on the part of these Reorganized Church people was my presentation to them of pictures of the papyri that had been turned over to the Church by the Museum of Art in New York. They feel that this was a very generous gesture on the part of our Church, and they appreciate it very much. Brother Dyer thought that this thing is opening the way for us in the manner referred to.”
“(Minutes of a Meeting of The First Presidency in the Hotel Apartment)
JOURNAL RECORD OF ALVIN R. DYER
TUESDAY, December 19, 1967
I met with The First Presidency in President McKay’s Apartment. All were present. Upon arriving, we found Brother Shaw and others from the BYU, together with Church News Photographers. Preparations had been made to play for the President a taped recording of News Correspondent Paul Harvey’s comments concerning his recent visit to the BYU Campus. I found his commentary exciting and realistic. It pleased all who heard it.
Apparently the President’s mechanical device reception was not so good. The nurse replaced his glasses, which are fitted for voice amplification, and the tape was played the second time. Hearing it more clearly, the President expressed his delight with the comment.
Pictures were taken of the President receiving the tape. First it was thought to photograph the President alone; then someone suggested that the Counselors should be in it. Presidents Brown and Tanner rose promptly and took their places. I wondered why President Smith did not do likewise. I took his arm and suggested he join the group. Then someone said, “Elder Dyer should be in the picture.” I hesitated. Then President Tanner said, “Come ahead Alvin.” So I stood next to President Smith, with my arm around him so as to be close, as the group was a little crowded as we stood at the side and in back of the President, who was seated at his desk. The Photographer, J. Malan Heslop, indicated that I could not be seen. I stood back of President Brown, but he did not move. But President Smith and the others did. Perhaps I got in the picture after all.
After the people from the BYU and the Photographers left, a number of important items were discussed by the Presidency:
(Letter from Elder S. Dilworth Young)
President Tanner presented a letter from Elder S. Dilworth Young. Brother Young was inquiring as to whether he would be permitted to take his wife with him, at Church expense, to visit the South American Stakes. President Tanner stated that the policy was that the wives could go when touring foreign missions, but not when visiting foreign stakes. But that President McKay had given approval in some instances for this to be done and that in some cases the Brethren had arbitrarily done it. President Tanner suggested that the matter be reappraised.
I commented that the problem of visiting foreign stakes for 3 or 4 consecutive weeks became a problem of “aloneness” unless the General Authority could visit in and meet with the missionaries in the missions near the stakes visited to occupy his time — this has been restricted to General Authorities assigned to those missions — there is a great waste of time and it is very disconcerting, and this is why the Brethren felt they wanted their wives with them.
President Brown at this point made rather a trite comment in saying, “What is the matter with being alone, are you afraid someone will steal you?” I promptly answered, “It is not that, but it is nevertheless not a good thing for a man to be alone for the greater part of three or four weeks with little or nothing to do. But if work could be done in the missions in the interim of each week, it would help to solve the problem.”
It was agreed that the matter would be discussed again; no decision was reached.
Wed., 3 Jan., 1968:
“Decided not to hold a meeting of the First Presidency this morning. President Smith is ill at home with the flu.
10:00 a. m.
Brother Alvin R. Dyer came over and consulted with me regarding the letter addressed to me by W. Wallace Smith, President of the Reorganized Church, who expressed his concern over plans of the City of Nauvoo to build a sewage treatment plant which would prove damaging to historic and sacred places in Nauvoo, including the burial plot of the Prophet Joseph, his wife Emma, and Hyrum Smith. Evidently the Nauvoo Restoration Corporation of which Dr. LeRoy Kimball is President knew of this sewage plant and went along with the city.
Brother Dyer suggested that a committee be appointed to look into the matter and report back to me.
Brother Dyer said that a Mr. Don Benton, attorney for the Reorganized Church, is in the city to talk with me about this matter. I arranged that Brother Dyer bring Mr. Benton to the apartment, at which time the matter will be discussed with him.
10:15 a. m.
Elder Dyer brought Mr. Benton to the apartment, and after introductions and greetings, Mr. Benton handed me the personal letter which President Wallace Smith had addressed to me. I read the letter carefully, and after a discussion regarding this matter, said that I would have this matter looked into and send President Smith an answer to his letter.
Mr. Benton was very cordial and said that if we could work together on this matter, it would be a good thing for both churches and would bring about a better understanding. Mr. Benton spoke of President Smith’s high regard for Elder Dyer, and of his appreciation for what he is doing to bring about a better understanding between the two churches.
I told Mr. Benton that I was most grateful for his visit and hoped that something could be worked out to have the sewage plant placed where it could not be damaging to the historic sites in which we are all interested.
(See following letters from President Smith and my answer thereto; also Elder Dyer’s minutes.)
(See also diary of January 9, 1968.)”
“January 3, 1968
Mr. David O. McKay, President,
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Temple Square
Salt Lake City, Utah
Dear President McKay:
I feel sure that you share with me a deep concern over plans of the City of Nauvoo to build a sweage treatment plant in the vicinity of the grave of Joseph Smith Jr. While this is my grandfather’s grave, it is much more than a personal matter. Erecting such a plant on the presently proposed site would be a grievous error felt in the years ahead by members of your church as well as mine.
Engineering studies show that the treatment and disposal plant could be moved some 1,000 feet to the west and that such a move would be feasible and desirable. We urge you to join with us now in an effort to effect such a change in the City’s plans. There is a matter of urgency since bids are to be opened on the project on January 16. Our church did not learn of the city’s plans until September. Our officers have had some degree of success in getting the city officials to consider a modified plan which eliminates a pumping station in the vicinity of the grave, but the matter of the location of the disposal plant has not been altered.
As you will recall, the graves of Joseph, Hyrum and Emma Smith had to be moved in 1928 to accommodate a power dam on the Mississippi River. It is my opinion that moving these graves once in a century should be sufficient. The decision on where the disposal plant should be erected in Nauvoo should be one of historical considration and not merely an engineering consideration. This would not be true of most cities, but you and I can surely agree that this would be true in historic Nauvoo.
I urge you to join with us in an effort to protect the sacred tradition and significance of the grave of the founder of the Restoration Movememb. We would appreciate your assistance in working toward a solution to this problem. We feel we share a mutual concern here and urge you and your officials to work with us to see this matter brought to a mutually satisfactory conclusion.
I extend my best personal wishes to you and your family at this season of the beginning of a New Year.
Very sincerely yours,
W. Wallace Smith
President
Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints”
“January 8, 1968
President Wallace Smith
Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
The Auditorium
Independence, Missouri
Dear President Smith:
The subject of your letter of recent date, relating to your interest in the relocation of the City of Nauvoo proposed sewage treatment plant, has been considered by our representatives interested in the historic properties in Nauvoo. The visit of Mr. Donald E. Benton of your legal department gave opportunity to review the subject in detail with him, and we believe there would be no objection to the plant being placed farther up the river beyond the small cemetery that is just north of the area mentioned by him.
Our committee is agreed that the proper procedure would be for you to make your request for the change you desire to the Nauvoo City Council, and if the Council is agreeable and an alternate site involving property owned by Nauvoo Restoration, Incorporated, is desired, our people could be brought into the discussion.
We are interested with you in preserving important historic sites. Our desire also is to cooperate in every appropriate way with vou and with the City of Nauvoo in the furtherance of all our mutual interests. We believe ways can be found to allay your apprehensions and to avoid detriment to anyone.
Sincerely yours,
David O. McKay
President”
“January 15, 1968
President David O. McKay
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Salt Lake City, Utah 84111
Dear President McKay:
We apprreciate your letter dated January 8th, received in our office today, pledging your cooperation in helping to resolve the problem which has arisen in Nauvoo, Illinois, in relation to the sewage treatment plant location contemplated by that municipality.
Our representatives are in Nauvoo today to meet with the City Council, and we are hopeful that they will give favorable consideration to relocating the treatment plant farther west and north to remove any possible objectionable odors.
Pending the outcome of the Nauvoo City Council’s consideration of this request for relocation, it may be necessary to get in touch with the Nauvoo Restoration, Incorporated to request a grant of land for the site of the treatment plant.
We appreciate your willingness to cooperate in our earnest desire to preserve the integrity of the graves of my grandfather and his brother, Hyrum.
Sincerely,
THE FIRST PRESIDENCY
By W. Wallace Smith”
“[Alvin R. Dyer minutes]
(Meeting of President David O. McKay with Elder Alvin R. Dyer Re: Contents of a Letter from President Wallace Smith of the R. L. D. S. to President McKay which was to be presented to the President later in the morning by Don Benton of the R. L. D. S. Legal Department.)
Clare Middlemiss arranged for me to see the President at 10:00 A.M.
Anticipating the contents of the letter from President Wallace Smith to President McKay, I spent 15 minutes giving the President a briefing on the Nauvoo Sewage Disposal Plant which President Smith felt created a hazard that would prove detrimental to their historic and sacred places in Nauvoo, including the burial plot of Joseph, Emma and Hyrum Smith.
I suggested to the President, that if in harmony with his wishes, that he receive the letter and respond to the idea that he would have a committee look into the matter and report back to him; that he could then answer President Smith’s letter. This he felt was the wise thing to do.
(Meeting of President David O. McKay with Elder Alvin R. Dyer and Don Benton of the R. L. D. S. Legal Department.)
At 10:l5 A. M. Don Benton arrived at the President’ s Apartment. The President received him most graciously, and after an interchange of greetings, Brother Benton, who himself was very courteous and respectful of President McKay, handed him the personal letter which President Smith had dispatched.
President McKay read it very carefully and ponderously. Finally, he promised Brother Benton that the matter would be looked into carefully, in accordance with President Smith’s wishes, and that an answer would be sent by him to President Smith.
Brother Benton commented that a unity of feeling in this matter would be a good thing for both churches, and would be a step toward a better understanding. President McKay agreed that it would. Brother Benton also spoke of President Smith’s high regard for me, and of his personal appreciation for the effort I was making contributing to a better understanding between the two churches.
The interview was most satisfying to Brother Benton, and President McKay was most wonderful as he always is upon such occasions. I believe that he was pleased that President Smith felt to appeal to him directly for a better understanding in the matter.”
Fri., 5 Jan., 1968:
“8:30 a. m.
Held a meeting with Presidents Brown, Tanner, and Elder Alvin Dyer. President Joneph Fielding Smith is indisposed today, and President Thorpe B. Isaacson is still absent because of the stroke he suffered two years ago.
A number of various items were discussed, the details of which are recorded in the minutes of the First Presidency. A few important items discussed were:
Isaacson, Thorpe B. – Occupation of his Office bv Elder Dyer
One matter I decided upon, after discussing the matter at the meeting of the Brethren this morning, and later with Elder Alvin R. Dyer, is to have Elder Dyer occupy President Isaacson’s office in the northwest corner of the first floor of the Administration Building, which has been unused since Brother Isaacson’s illness two years ago. President Tanner had suggested at the meeting that Patriarch Eldred G. Smith take this office, but after thinking the matter over, I decided that it would be unwise to bring him in to that office where members of the Church, mothers with children, and others would be coming right into the offices of the First Presidency where confidential work is being done, and where meetings are often held.
In talking the matter over later with Elder Dyer, I told him that it was my desire that he occupy that office; that, however, I do not want President Isaacson to be offended or hurt in any way. I said that I should like to call on him myself and talk to him about it, but that I do not feel up to going in a wheelchair to his apartment. I, therefore, asked Elder Dyer to call on President Isaacson, talk the matter over with him, and see how he feels about it. Brother Dyer said that he would do this Sunday and take Sister Dyer with him.”
Mon., 15 Jan., 1968:
“8:30 a.m.
Held a meeting with Presidents Brown and Tanner and Elder Dyer.
Alvin R. Dyer’s Book “The Refiner’s Fire”
Elder Dyer then referred to the proposed re-publication of his book “The Refiner’s Fire”, which he has brought up to date. This manuscript had been submitted to Elder Harold B. Lee, who had made a number of suggestions and changes, all of which changes Elder Dyer said he has made. The Deseret Book Company is now awaiting approval of the First Presidency for authorization to publish the book. I gave permission for Elder Dyer to go ahead with the publication. (See Elder Dyer’s minutes following.)
Mon., 15 Jan., 1968:
Thorpe B. Isaacson’s Office – Elder Alvin R. Dyer to Occupy
I discussed with Clare the matter of President Isaacson’s office which has been unoccupied since his illness two years ago. I said that President Tanner had suggested in a recent meeting of the First Presidency that Patriarch Eldred G. Smith occupy the office, but that after giving the matter much thought, I feel that this would be unwise because it would mean the bringing into the office of the First Presidency mothers with their babies, and many members of the Church seeking Patriarchal blessings and they would have to wait around and pass right through the private offices of the First Presidency.
I stated that I had had a conference with Elder Alvin R. Dyer regarding the office, and inasmuch as Elder Dyer needs another office because of the undesirability of the one he now occupies, and the further fact that I should like him nearer to the First Presidency, I have decided that he (Elder Dyer) should take that office. I asked Clare to tell Elder Dyer to move into the office immediately. She said, “Do you want me to get him on the phone now so that you can tell him ?”, and I said, “No, that is not necessary; I have already talked the matter over with him and he is the one who should go in there; you call him and tell him that I want him to move in that office immediately.”
Clare said that she would get the word to Elder Dyer as soon as possible. She reminded me that it was 12:30 p. m., and that probably she had better go, and I said, “I hate to see you go — you always make me feel better.”
Clare said, “I was just saying the other day that in all the years I have worked for you, whenever I have been with you to attend to office business, I have never wanted to leave your presence; that I have always received an ‘uplift’ from being around you.”
I smiled and told Clare that it had been mutual and that she had proved herself many years ago. I stated that it was a feeling of great satisfaction are joy to know of her loyalty and desire to serve.
Clare smiled as she left the room, and said that she would keep in touch with me about the work.
Later, I was amused and somewhat surprised to learn of the reactions of several persons regarding Elder Dyer’s occupying President Isaacson’s office; Richard Isaacson, son of President Isaacson, attempted to clear up the misunderstandings that some persons have about the occupancy of his father’s office, stating that his father had been very pleased about Elder Dyer’s coming into his office. He said his father had asked for a piece of paper, upon which he had written as best he could the following: “The work must go on. President McKay needs help. I want Elder Dyer in there.” Dick said, “I have that note and I shall always keep it.” (See notes by Clare following.)”
“(Minutes of Meeting with The First Presidency Held in Hotel Apartment)
JOURNAL RECORD OF ALVIN R. DYER
MONDAY, January 15, 1968
(Meeting of The First Presidency)
I attended a meeting of The First Presidency at 8:30 A. M. which, by pre-arrangement, included Alma Burton, Brother Siddoway, Scott Whitaker and one other brother from the BYU. Also in attendance, representing a student guidance committee, was a brother from Ricks College, an Assistant to John L. Clarke.
Their presentation consisted of a colored filmstrip titled “After High School What?” and is narrated by President Hugh B. Brown. It has been prepared and proposed for showing in the General Priesthood Meeting of the April 1968 Annual Conference. It will require approximately 22 minutes.
The filmstrip and narration have not been finalized, so suggestions for its improvement were discussed. Among others, I suggested the following:
(A) The opening remarks of President Brown be more indicative of what the filmstrip was all about.
(B) That more of the professions be referred to. The present strip narrates many fields for attainment, but there is only minor references on filmstrip. I suggested that successful men in a number of fields showing them at their work, such as Business Administration, Engineer, Scientist, Doctor, Lawyer, Sales Executive, might well enhance the image of continuing education after high school.
(C) The present strip has President McKay in colored picture with certain remarks he has made, narrated, concerning the need of pursuing educational training, about two-thirds into the film. I suggested that he be moved to the very
last part of the filmstrip so as to conclude it.
The committee for preparing the filmstrip was given approval to proceed with the final phase and then check with President Brown who will represent The First Presidency.
Approval was given for the presentation of the filmstrip at the April Conference, as they had requested it.
President Brown asked the President if he wanted to consider any other matters before we left; his answer was no.
(Approval To Publish The Revised Version Of “The Refiners Fire” Given)
As we were about to leave the President, I whispered to President Brown that now might be a good time to ask the President for permission to go ahead with the publishing of “The Refiners Fire” Revised version; his answer was “Yes, it would be.” I asked if he would like to remain while I took the matter up with the President. He said, “Yes, if you would like me to, or why don’t you present the matter before all of us.” (This meant President McKay, President Brown, President Tanner and myself.) So we sat down again; I next to President McKay. I told him that I had been given the letter which Elder Harold B. Lee, Chairman of the Reading Committee, had submitted when the manuscript was returned to the Presidency. The letter contained the suggested changes and deletions. I have now conformed to the suggestions with the exception of the statement that it was God the Father who spoke to the Prophet Joseph in Liberty Prison, which I firmly believe. But the Reading Committee felt that it was Christ the Lord. I have five reasons why I believe as I do. These are as follows — although I did not bring them up at the time simply because of the controversial nature of the subject. (President Brown suggested that I change the wording just enough so that the reader could interpret it the way he liked.)
1. The Deity answering Joseph Smith called him “My Son”. (121: 7 )
2. The prayer which Joseph uttered was directed to, “O Lord God Almighty”. (121:4)
3. And in another verse “The Eternal God of all other Gods”. (121: 32)
4. The term “our Heavenly Father” is also used. (123: )
5. The Deity answering Joseph Smith refers to the Son of Man in the second person. “My Son all these things shall give thee experience and shall be for thy good. The Son of Man hath descended below them all. Art thou greater than He ?” (122: 7-8)”
Mon., 15 Jan., 1968:
“NOTE by CM:
10:30 a. m.
Went over to President McKay’s office in the apartment. Mrs. Noyce, the nurse, answered the door; I said goodmorning to her and walked on into the President’s office where he was sitting at his desk. He had the oxygen apparatus on, but looked very alert and well. He commented upon my happy smiles, and I said: “I am always happy to see you and to see you looking so well.” He then asked me if I knew of the meeting which was held earlier this morning at which time the Presidency met with the Brigham Young University Seminary personnel and viewed the film “After School, What?” I said, “No, Secretary Anderson never informs me of any meeting that is scheduled; although I should know so that there will be no conflict of appointments.” President McKay said, “Well, he should.” Then I told the President that yesterday I had placed on my desk by Anderson’s secretary, First Presidency’s Minutes dated as far back as December 8, 1967–over a month’s minutes which I shall now have to go through all at once. This makes it so that I have to work in the dark so to speak regarding appointments the President has had and his decisions and wishes regarding Church matters which should be entered in his diary. The President was not pleased over this.
I then took up with President McKay letters and other office matters. I read a number of letters of “thank you” for Christmas remembrances from friends and associates, and also letters congratulating Sister McKay and him on their 68th Wedding Anniversary. Tears glistened in the President’s eyes as I read of the love, respect, and admiration the people have for him.
President McKay then discussed with me office matters; one of which was the occupation of President Isaacson’s office which has been unoccupied ever since his illness two years ago. He said that President Tanner had suggested in a recent meeting of The First Presidency that Patriarch Eldred Smith occupy the office, but that he (President McKay) after giving the matter much thought, felt that this would be unwise because it would mean the bringing into the office of The First Presidency mothers with their babies, and many members of the Church seeking Patriarchal Blessings, and they would have to wait around and pass right through the offices of The First Presidency.
President McKay then said that he had had a conference with Elder Alvin R. Dyer regarding the office, and inasmuch as Elder Dyer needs another office because of the undesirability of the one he now occupies, he feels that Brother Dyer should move into President Isaacson’s office. President McKay said he wanted Elder Dyer to have an office nearer to The First Presidency.
President McKay then told me to tell Elder Dyer to move into the office immediately. I asked the President if he wanted to call him, and he said, “No, that is not necessary; we have already talked the matter over and Elder Dyer is the one who should occupy this office; you call him and tell him that I want him to move in that office immediately.” Clare said that Dick Isaacson reported to her that Mrs. Tanner had told his mother a year ago that President Tanner would like to move in that office. President McKay looked surprised at that. (See January 19, 1968, for further word on this from Dick Isaacson.)
Clare also said that Brother Dyer had reported that when he went in to talk to President Tanner and told him that President McKay for sometime had wanted him to occupy President Isaacson’s office, that President Tanner said he had no business going to President McKay and changing his mind about Eldred Smith’s occupying the office. He also said, “You and Clare see him more than I do; you two are running the Church.” At that President McKay smiled broadly and said to me: “Well, I think you are a pretty good “runner” of the Church. I have wished many times that you were a man (Not always, because no man would have done what vou have done for me) so that I could appoint you as my counselor. You have been and are a great girl–you have been dependable, wise, and have had good judgment.” Brother Dyer also reported that President Tanner said that President McKay had appointed Elder Dyer in the wrong way — that he should not have presented his name before all the General Authorities (i.e., the PBO, Seventies, Assistants, the Twelve at the pre-Conference meeting) but just to the members of the Twelve; and that furthermore, Elder Dyer has interpreted the Doctrine and Covenants all wrong when he claims that President McKay may have up to twelve counselors. Elder Dyer told him that he (President Tanner) did not understand the scriptures; that President Joseph Fielding Smith interprets them to mean just as President McKay does. President Tanner also said that it is a known fact that Clare had a lot to do with putting him (Elder Dyer) in that office. Elder Dver reported that he told President Tanner that that is not true; that his relationship with President McKay had been very close ever since their trip to Missouri a year or so ago; and that President McKay had called him to be a counselor before he left for South America, and that they (President Tanner and President Brown) had done everything in their power to prevent President McKay from having him sustained as a counselor. President McKay remarked at that point, “Did he tell President Tanner that?” I said, “Yes, so he reported. ” President McKay answered, “Good for Alvin; I am glad he told him that. ” President Tanner further said, “President McKay will no doubt have you sustained at the April Conference as a counselor in The First Presidency .” Elder Dyer answered, “That is up to President McKay.” President Tanner also was told bv Elder Dyer that so far as Clare and he running the Church is concerned, that that is just what people are saying about him — that he, “President Tanner, is running the Church.”
Thur., 18 Jan., 1968:
“9:00 to 9:30 a. m.
Held a meeting with President Nathan Eldon Tanner and Elder Alvin R. Dyer. President Brown is in Palm Springs, California taking a rest, and President Smith is meeting with the Twelve in the Temple. President Isaacson is at home recuperating from a stroke. The matters discussed at our meeting were:
President Thorpe B. Isaacson – Occupancy of His Office
President Tanner referred to an earlier consideration by the First Presidency of a proposed rearranging of office space, at which time he had suggested that Patriarch Smith move into the office that has been occupied by President Thorpe B. Isaacson. President Tanner said that Elder Dyer had indicated that he would like to use that office and that he had stated that I favored this proposal; further, that Elder Dyer’s secretary could have a desk with other secretaries in the First Presidency’s office where President Isaacson’s secretary has been located. President Tanner, therefore, recommended to me that if Brother Dyer wants to go there he might just as well do so as anyone else. President Tanner explained that we are much crowded for space in the Administration Building, and that President Isaacson’s room is not being used, which is the reason for suggesting that Elder Dyer move into it.
Elder Dyer commented that originally he had made no request for the office; that, however, the information was conveyed to him that he was to occupy it. He said he told President Tanner he felt he should go there because this had been his understanding previously, that when he had discussed the matter with me it was agreed that he should do so. He said that he and Sister Dyer had at my request visited President and Sister Isaacson to make certain that President Isaacson would not be offended, and that he seemed to feel all right about the matter. It was further stated that President Isaacson’s family have now moved all of President Isaacson’s belongings out of the room and it is ready for occupancy. He said he had suggested to President and Sister Isaacson that they wait until they received word from me before they moved these things, but they had taken care of the situation at once.
I said that Elder Dyer should occupy this office as I had instructed him.
(See following minutes of Elder Dyer put here at my request after having read them.)”
“(Minutes of a Meeting of The First Presidency Held in the Hotel Apartment)
JOURNAL RECORD OF ALVIN R. DYER
THURSDAY, January 18, 1968
(Meeting of The First Presidency)
I met with The First Presidency prior to their meeting with the Council of the Twelve in the Temple. I do not attend these meetings. President Brown is resting in California, and President Joseph Fielding Smith was absent in order to conduct the Quorum of the Twelve Meeting.
The President seemed fit and was prepared to attend the Temple Meeting which he did.
Several items were discussed in The First Presidency Meeting, the principal one being raised by President Tanner relating to proposed rearrangement of certain office rooms in the Church Administration Building, including the question of my occupying the Northwest corner roorn on the main floor. President McKay at first seemed not oriented to what President Tanner was saying, and when it seemed like he was, President Tanner brought into his presentation the Southeast room on the second floor which Joseph Fielding Smith has kept open as a standby office for the Quorum of the Twelve. President Tanner wondered why President Smith could not be persuaded to relinquish this space. Bringing this office status into the discussion of my occupying Thorpe Isaacson’s former office seemed a little confusing. Hoeever, before that was left, it was decided to defer any discussion on it until President Smith was present.
President Tanner, in returning to my proposed office, recalled to the President that in the first discussion on the Northwest office the Presidency had agreed that Eldred Smith was to be moved down there, but that later I had made it known that I wanted that particular office. Upon hearing this statement, I said that originally I had not had any desire nor did I take any steps to be mooved into the office in question, but that when I was called to be an Apostle at the last General Conference and assumed the status as an advisor to President McKay, the understanding was conveyed to me by the President that at the proper time, if Brother Isaacson did not return, I was to be placed in it. And that it was because of this understanding, that I returned to see President McKay to determine whether or not, since it appeared now that someone would be placed there, he still wanted me to occupy it. (This is the point upon which President Tanner and I had had some discussion. He felt I had gone around him in going back to the President that day, because he had been appointed with Brother Howard Hunter to study the office space problem. He wondered why if the President wanted me in there, he or I did not bring it up in the meeting. The answer to this is simple. The occupancy of the office by Eldred Smith was not fully understood by the President; he thought he was giving approval to study the overall problem. I said nothing as I did not want to embarrass the President, but thought it better to come back and talk to him personally.
In continuing my statement in the meeting I said that I went back to see the President at which time he said he did not want Eldred Smith to move into the office, and that he had not changed concerning my occupancy of it. However, he said that I should not occupy the office either unless President and Sister Isaacson and Dick felt all right about it. (This is the reason for May and I visiting with Thorpe, Lou, and Dick, at the request of President McKay. What was said upon that occasion is included in this Journal and need not be reiterated.)
One point, however, should be clear; I did not request or even suggest that the office be vacated. My visit was to find out how they would feel about it, but nothing would be done until they were officially advised. The removal of Brother Isaacson’s things was the doing of Sister Isaacson and Dick.
At any rate the President confirmed the instruction he gave me through his Secretary, Clare Middlemiss, which was actually a fulfillment of the understanding I had had from the President previously that I was to move into the office.
As the meeting of this morning came to a close, and we were putting on our coats to leave, the President beckoned me to come back into his office. I took his hand which he held onto quite some time even as I started to leave again. He said, “Well, that’s all taken care of”.
Read and Approved by President David O. McKay”
Fri., 19 Jan., 1968:
“Did not hold a meetings with my counselors this morning.
11:00 a.m.
Clare came over and presented letters and requests for appointments to me.
President Thorpe B. Isaacson – Misunderstanding Over Occupancy of Office Clare reported the statement Eleanore O’Dell (President Isaacson’s secretary) had made to Mrs. Joseph Fielding Smith. Eleanore has been working for Joseph Anderson during the past two years, or since President Isaacson’s illness. This girl was very perturbed because Sister Isaacson and her son, Richard, had come to clear out President Isaacson’s belongings from his office, and had voiced her opinion to Sister Smith that she knew who was back of the whole thing (meaning Clare Middlemiss and Alvin Dyer).
(See following memorandum for further explanation which I asked Clare to include in these minutes.)
Clare asked me if she could show this girl the sentence in the minutes of the First Presidency at which time President Tanner had suggested that Patriarch Eldred G. Smith occupy President Isaacson’s office.
I told Clare that she had my full permission to clear up this whole misunderstanding. She said that she would like to have Richard Isaacson come to the office when she talks to Eleanore, because he knows that Sister Tanner had asked Sister Isaacson if her husband would mind if President Tanner occupied the office, and that she would like Eleanore to know that she (Clare) had nothing whatever to do with Elder Dyer’s occupying the office. I said that it would be a good thing to have Richard Isaacson present when she talks to Eleanore.
Clare also reported that there had been other difficulties at the office, but that she would not report these at the present time; that she had “had enough for one day; that it had been a very disappointing day.”
I told her that these matters are in her hands; that she is to use her own judgment, and can report to me later the outcome.”
“Note by CM
Received a telephone call from Sister Jesse Evans Smith stating that Eleanore O’Dell, President Thorpe B. Isaacson’s secretary, had told her yesterday how upset she is because Alvin R. Dyer is taking President Isaacson’s office. Sister Smith explained that this was the First Presidency’s decision, and Eleanore said she did not believe that; that she knew who was back of it. She gave Sister Smith to understand that Clare is back of it, and Sister Smith said, “No, this is President Tanner’s suggestion for someone to occupy that office.” Eleanore said she did not believe that; that “this always blaming President Tanner for things was not right.”
I asked Sister Smith if she would mind if I talked to Eleanore to let her know that I did not have anything to do with the decision to put someone in President Isaacson’s office, and she said, “Why, no, because I know you did not.”
As a matter of fact, I had already called Eleanore and told her I wanted to see her, because I could see that something was wrong with her when she placed a letter on my desk early this morning; and I intended to ask her what was wrong with her. Eleanore came in, but I was on the telephone talking to Dick Isaacson, as I wanted him to know what was being said, so she did not stay.
I had to go over to the President’s, and I told him that I was getting the blame for Alvin Dyer’s going into President Isaacson’s office, and I explained to him what I had heard from Sister Smith this morning. I asked him if he would give permission to show Eleanore, when I talked to her, the minutes where President Tanner had suggested that Eldred G. Smith occupy President Isaacson’s office, since she was so sure that President Tanner had had nothing whatever to do with it; that I wanted this matter cleared up. He said, “You have my permission to show her, and to clear this thing up.”
It was 2:00 p. m. before I heard from Dick Isaacson. He said he would meet me at my office in 15 or 20 minutes. At the appointed time, Dick came in and told me the whole situation. He said that both his father and mother felt very good about the whole thing and they were appreciative of the fact that President McKay had sent Elder Dyer up to their home to present the matter to President Isaacson to see how he felt about Elder Dyer’s going into his office. It was explained to him that President Tanner had suggested that Elder Eldred G. Smith, Patriarch to the Church, be placed in that office, and President lsaacson forcefully shook his head and said, “No, no.” But he was pleased to have Brother Dyer go in there.
Dick said that later that afternoon he went back to see his father to see if he really and truly felt all right, and that his father motioned for him to give him a piece of paper, and with his left hand he wrote the words: “The work has to go on. President McKay needs help, and I want Brother Dyer in my office.”
Dick said that he has kept the note for his Book of Remembrance. He then said that “a year and a half ago, Sister Nathan Eldon Tanner asked my mother if she thought my father would feel all right if her husband (President Tanner) occupied President Isaacson’s office, as he felt that that office would be more convenient for him. When this was mentioned to President Isaacson, he very much resented it and shook his head, no; that he didn’t want that.”
At this point, Eleanore was called in, and Dick repeated the above to her. Then I told her that I had heard she was blaming me for Brother Dyer’s going into President Isaacson’s office. I told her that I wanted her to hear this explanation direct from Dick. I also read a short sentence to her from the minutes of January 5 (permission for which had been given to me by President McKay), stating that it was President Tanner who had suggested that Eldred G. Smith occupy President Isaacson’s office.
I said, “Now, you see, Eleanore, you should get at the bottom of these things before you wrongfully accuse someone.” She said, “Well, I am glad to know; and I am glad you told me.”
I then asked her if she is working permanently for Brother Anderson, or if her work would finish now that someone else would occupy her boss’ office. She answered that she was doing work for Brother Anderson, and that she was sure he would need her to do the work she is doing. I said, “What if Brother Dyer asks you to do work for him?” She answered, “Oh, I would rather work for Brother Anderson.”
Clare Middlemiss
(Read and approved by President McKay to include in this day’s journal.)”
Tues., 20 Feb., 1968:
I then read a letter addressed to me by Mark Anderson, formerly President of the Finnish Mission, wherein he reported a conference with President Brown, who said that the statement made by me at April 1966 Conference was not my statement, although it was read by my son, Robert, and that “Clare Middlemiss is sending letters out from President McKay’s Office on her own about the John Birch Society”. He said that President Tanner claims that Clare had a lot to do with Alvin Dyer’s appointment to the Apostleship.
Clare then asked me if she “has to take these accusations”, and I said “Yes, the Lord will take care of it.”
“(Meeting With President McKay On Neal Maxwell Rumor)
Later on the same morning I accompanied Clare Middlemiss to President McKay’s apartment to inform him of the rumors that were extant concerning Neal Maxwell being appointed President of the BYU replacing Ernest L. Wilkinson.
I related to the President the reports I had received during the past two days, principally frorn Ernest L. Wilkinson. (Note: These reports have been stated beforehand in this Journal Record, and were given to the President as stated. Attention however is directed to a correction in the story as it affects the alleged open remarks of Lee Stenquist. See Journal Record dated Wednesday, February 21, 1968.)
President McKay seemed greatly surprised at these rumors stating that such statements if made were done so without authority. He did not appear to know who Neal Maxwell was, and asked about him. I told him of the association between Brother Maxwell and Elder Lee in Priesthood Correlation. He asked about him personally. I reported that to my knowledge he was a brilliant young man, but that he fit the pattern of our modern day intellectual liberals — that he was a brilliant liberal and might have difficulty maintaining the kind of discipline in education that is desirable at BYU, which had been maintained by President Wilkinson. The President also asked about Lee Stenquist of USU and where he got his information to make such a statement. I of course did not know. The President intimated that the rumors must stem from somewhere and would I look into the matter and report my findings directly to him, which I agreed to do.
I asked President McKay if President Brown had discussed this matter personally with him. I asked this because it is known that President Brown has seen the President a number of times alone. His answer was that the matter had not been discussed by him and President Brown.
I remarked that it was pretty well established that President Brown and Elder Lee would like to see Ernest Wilkinson removed as President of the BYU. The President asked how I knew this. I said it was common knowledge; that Elder Lee and President Wilkinson openly clashed in the meetings I had attended of the Board of Trustees. The President said for me to look into the matter further and resort back.
(Priesthood Meeting Article On Communism)
(Stake Presidents – Bishops — The John Birch Society)
Before leaving I heard Sister Midddlemiss ask President McKay about what should be done concerning President Brown’s efforts by correspondence to Bishops and others wherein he is telling these different ones that the pamphlet containing a statement by President David O. McKay concerning the position of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Communism, given at the General Priesthood Meeting April 9, 1966, is not the words of President McKay at all — inferring that Sister Middlemiss had added to this compiled information; also that he is referring to the letter sent to President Patten of the Tampa Stake erroneously, saying that Stake Presidents and Bishops are not to join the John Birch Society.
When asked if these matters should be brought out and cleared in a First Presidency meeting, the President shook his head and said, “The Lord will take care of it.”
Alvin R. Dyer”
Sat., 24 Feb., 1968:
“Spent the day at home.
Nauvoo Corporation
Elder Alvin R. Dyer met with Mr. Don Benton, Attorney for the Reorganized Church, and Mr. C. I. Myers, a Kansas City River Engineer. They discussed matters pertaining to the Nauvoo Corporation and the proposed Nauvoo City sewage disposal plant in Nauvoo.
(For detail, see following minutes by Brother Dyer.)”
SATURDAY, February 24, 1968
(Nauvoo City Sewage Disposal Meeting)
I had received telephone calls the previous day from both Don Benton and Nauvoo Restoration, stating that Don Benton of the R.L.D.S and C. I. Myers, a Kansas City River Engineer engaged by them, would be in Salt Lake City on this day to attend a meeting at the offices of Nauvoo Restoration at 8:30 A.M.
I met with Don Benton and Mr. Myers in my office prior to this meeting where we discussed in brief the report that Mr. Myers would make on the matter. This report, in the form of a letter, is the same that was submitted by the R. L. D. S. to the Nauvoo City Officials on Wednesday evening February 21, 1968, and is made part of this Journal Record.
The meeting at 8:30 was attended by LeRoy Kimball, A. Hamer Reiser, T. Edgar Lyon, Stephen Baird, Don Benton, C. I. Myers, and myself.
Mr. Myers submitted the report, as referred to, and in the course of the discussion that ensued, it developed that Nauvoo Restoration were unwilling to agree to support any of the alternate sites proposed. Dr. Kimball said that they wanted to study the whole matter further.
I called the attention of everyone present to the fact that the R.L.D.S. had gone to considerable expense in developing data for the proposals, and that Nauvoo Restoration could go on indefinitely rejecting proposal after proposal, which meant that virtually no solution would be reached with such procedure; that since Nauvoo Restoration would be the approval agency (because proposed relocation of the treatment plans would be on their land), that they should satisfy themselves as to an agreeable location to them, and then submit it, that the matter could be settled. This Brother Kirnball agreed to do.
I endeavored to make the matter clear that the original site was not acceptable to President McKay; because of its closeness to the graves of Joseph, Ernma and Hyrum Smith, the Joseph Srnith store site, Nauvoo Mansion, and other historically sacred sites, while owned by the R.L.D.S. were nevertheless sacred to our people. All seemed in agreement on this.
(The Problems That Continue)
(1) A meeting of the Nauvoo City Officials is scheduled for March 5th or 6th, and if an agreeable relocated site is is not established, they may attempt to push the placing of the plant on the original site. This we do not want.
(2) The costs to the R.L.D.S. of a relocated site are still a factor; for whatever they may be required to pay extra because of a relocated site, even with offset savings, (See Report) would be in addition to Legal, Engineering, and other that have been and are being incurred in connection with the injunction they caused to be placed to forestall the original project site.
(3) It now becomes Nauvoo Restoration’s responsibility to satisfy the City Officials in order that problem #1 will not be invoked.
(4) The letter which President McKay sent to President Wallace Smith of the R.L.D.S. included this wording: “There would be no objection to the plant being placed farther up the river beyond the small cemetary.” (Date: January 8, 1968.)
The R.L.D.S. have endeavored to work to the end of moving the plant beyond the small cemetery, but Nauvoo Restoration have objected to the sites which their engineer recommends could be considered. Cost data to the R.L.D.S. over and above original contract bids has been based upon these proposals that have been submitted by the R.L.D.S., which sites are feasible.
It follows that should Nauvoo Restoration now suggest a site that would increase the cost of the feasible sites north of the cemetery, that the Nauvoo Restoration should assume this additional cost.
(See SUNDAY February 25, 1968, for Continuation of This Matter.)
SUNDAY, February 25, 1968
(Telephone Conversation With C. I. Myers)
On Sunday morning I received a phone call from Mr. Myers who was staying at the Hotel Utah. The main points of his talk with me concerned the following four points:
(1) That Nauvoo Restoration in some way assure the City Officials that a suitable site is being worked out.
(2) That impression, for all around goodwill, be given that the two churches are working together to solve the problem. This would help to restore a better feeling in the Nauvoo area for the R.L.D.S. who are hated because of the injunction etc.
(3) That the Nauvoo Restoration assume costs over and above that incurred in proposed relocation sites — which had been determined, as the R.L.D.S. thought, in harmony with President McKay’s letter.
(4) That the treatment tanks could be placed at proposal site #2, and then later moved when the shoreline scenic highway was built.. This would serve to get the project in operation without delay.
COMMENT:
Brother Kimball promised me personally that he would call the Nauvoo City Officials to forestall any action on the original sites and to assure them that a suitable site would be found.”
Mon., 26 Feb., 1968:
“8:30 a.m.
Clare came over and presented letters and several petitions for cancellation of Temple seatings. All of these cases were women who had divorced husbands who had been untrue to them and to the Church, and who were asking to be sealed to men whom they had married since their divorces.
Clare also presented a memorandum she had written for the journal concerning reports regarding occupation of President Isaacson’s office, also Elder Dyer’s interview with President Tanner regarding this matter and also his attitude regarding Elder Dyer’s appointment as an Apostle, which he said “was not done in the right way.” She said she did not want to include this in my journal unless I approved it.
After reading it carefully, I gave my permission for it to be included in my journal.
(See January 15, 1968.)
Clare then said that she feels hurt and disturbed over these attitudes and misunderstandings, and I said, “The Lord will take care of it — it does not worry me and you should go on as you are and pay no attention to what any of them say; that I know her and her motives. She said she does worry, but that lately she is beginning to “throw it off”. She then said that she is staying home tomorrow to gather some material for the talks I shall give at April Conference.
I said, “All right, but stay close to me.””
“JOURNAL RECORD OF ALVIN R. DYER
MONDAY, February 26, 1968
(Meeting of The First Presidency)
There was no First Presidency meeting held upon this day. Clare Middlemiss was with the President during the morning and reported that he was much better. The Counselors were out of the city for the day.
(News Release On Far West Temple Site Improvements)
I gave to Henry Smith, Church Press representative, a set of schematic drawings on the monuments, markers, and beautification of the Far West Temple Site. I also gave him the projection data for this project which has now been completely approved, with final drawings in process.
Brother Smith will prepare an appropriate news release with pictures on the project, with the approval of President McKay.
(Final Preparations For The Publishing Of “The Refiners Fire”)
Consultations with Alva Parry and Jim Mortimer of the Deseret Book Company, indicated that the manuscript, now having been edited for printers style, will go to the press, (Church News), this week. The publishing date of the book has been scheduled for early June of this year.
TUESDAY, February 27, 1968
This is the day of birth of my eternal life’s companion, my dearest Mae.
(Meeting of The First Presidency)
There was no First Presidency meeting upon this day. Joseph Anderson advised me at about 8:30 A. M. that the President had said there was nothing that he had to discuss today.
(A Matter Concerning BYU and President Wilkinson)
On Monday evening, President Wilkinson called me at home appraising me of a letter he had received sometime ago from President McKay personally, concerning the matter of socialism being taught in certain departments at the BYU, and that instructions were to be given against such inclined teachings at this Church School. President Wilkinson advised me that he would soon prepare his annual message and report to the faculty, which includes salary status etc., and that he desired to include the President’s instruction in this message. He reported further that President Brown had evidently heard of the President’s instruction by letter, and had called President Wilkinson suggesting that the matter come before the entire Presidency first. He invited President Wilkinson to be in Salt Lake City early Tuesday morning to so present the matter before The First Presidency is such meeting was held. President Wilkinson agreed so to do.
He asked if I would meet with him at 8:00 A. M. to chat with me about this matter and also several others he would like to bring up if the meeting materialized. These concerned a sought for policy statement from The First Presidency on “Birth Control” and also further pursuance of the invitation to J. Edgar Hoover, with President Johnson’s approval, to speak at the BYU on a national T.V. and Radio hookup on May 1, 1968, which is “Law Day”.
Thus, I met President Wilkinson at the appointed time on this day, and we talked of the things referred to above. I told President Wilkinson that if The First Presidency meeting was held, that he should not bring up the rumored matter of his being succeeded by Neal Maxwell, or of his Chancelorship of the entire Church School System. He agreed to this.
Then we learned that President McKay did not feel the need to meet with The First Presidency on this morning.
(My Desire To See President McKay To Report On Matters Assigned)
Knowing of Clare Middlemiss’s feeling concerning the President’s improved health, she having been with him the previous day, I called her at her home where she was working on the President’s Diary to inform her that there was no meeting of The First Presidency. I also informed her that President Wilkinson was with me, and that this morning might be a good time for me to see the President personally to report on assignments he had given rne, and to take President Wilkinson with me. She agreed to call the President to see if he would see me.
Sister Middlemiss called me back to report that she had talked to the nurse, and that President McKay was eating breakfast, but upon learning that I wanted to see him and bring President Wilkinson with me, the President said he wanted to see us and that we were to come at 9:30 A. M.
(President Ernest L. Wilkinson Meets With The President)
It was about 10:00 A M. when Elder Richards and Brother Williams left. Elder Richards assured the President that he wanted to do only that which the President would approve of. As he left the apartment, he expressed his gratitude for having the privilege of meeting with and reporting directly to the President. He said if I had any suggestions concerning Personnel work he would be pleased to receive them. He also said that if at any time he could help me he would be only too pleased to do so.
President Wilkinson came in as they left. The President expressed a delight in seeing him. He seemed alert and ready to discuss certain matters with him affecting the BYU.
President Wilkinson discussed with the President the following matters which we had discussed previously since I desired to have some idea of what he wanted to see the President about.
1. The proposed letter to J. Edgar Hoover to be the principal speaker at the BYU celebration of “Law Day”. This to be augmented by a letter to President Lyndon B. Johnson asking for his support of the invitation to Mr. Hoover. The President gave his approval.
I gave this my support for I felt that a national T.V. and Radio hookup from our Church School at this particular time would be helpful. However I felt that the letter President Wilkinson proposed be sent to President Johnson, being signed by President McKay, should be re-worded so as not to request that Mr. Hoover be instructed to accept the invitation, but rather that he would approve if Mr. Hoover desired to accept. (Clare Middlemiss and I later rephrased and restated certain parts of the letters before they were sent out under the President’s signature. These are made part of this Journal Record.)
2. A letter which President McKay sent to him under date of May 25, 1967, was referred to. This concerned the President’s wishes that the departments of History, Sociology, Political Science, Economics, and all other related departments be urged to teach
the evils of Socialism and the welfare state.
He asked for permission, since he was now preparing his annual message to the faculty of the School, to include all of the faculty members and not just those associated with the departments listed above. He had prepared a substitute paragraph which the President approved.
COMMENT:
Since President McKay’s original letter was dated in May of 1967, but had not been invoked, and also due to the paragraph change, the letter is to be reissued. (The letter is made part of this Journal Record.)
3. The third matter presented by President Wilkinson concerned the teachings of certain “Birth Control” practices by certain professors at the BYU who have claimed that their authority for doing so stems from a letter received from a certain General Authority. President Wilkinson reported that he had learned that the General Authority in question is none other than President Hugh B. Brown. President McKay’s response to this was, “Yes, I know all about him.” He asked if President Wilkinson had been able to get the letter. President Wilkinson reported that he had not, but would keep trying.
What President Wilkinson was asking for was an up-to-date policy statement from The First Presidency on the subject.
I have a real interest in this. I reported to the President an interview I had recently with a post graduate girl student and a returned missionary student who will graduate this year. It was evident that this unmarried couple had used some form of contraceptive in committing a sexual sin. I mentioned also that recent statistics indicate that 1 out of 6 girls in America became pregnant before marriage, and that there was no way of knowing how many had committed the sin where the girl had not become pregnant.
I suggested that a committee from the Quorum of the Twelve be appointed through President Joseph Fielding Smith to study the matter and then bring it before The First Presidency for their approval or disapproval. President Wilkinson urged the President to appoint such a committee directly, but I suggested that the matter be brought before a meeting of The First Presidency before such an appointment.
The President asked me to bring the matter up at the next meeting of The First Presidency. President Wilkinson then left. It was about 10:45 A.M.
Wed., 6 Mar., 1968:
“11:30 a.m.
Clare came over with office matters. She presented several letters for my signature. She also presented matters pertaining to the forthcoming Annual Conference of the Church. She reminded me of the three new appointments I shall have to make at this conference — a new Seventy to replace Elder Antoine R. Ivins; a new Assistant to the Twelve; and the appointment of Elder Dyer as my Counselor.
I stated that I have given the matter a great deal of thought and prayer; that I need someone like President Isaacson to be close to me. Clare said that she understood, and that she realizes that I have a great decision to make; that her desire is to see me satisfied and that some of the burdens I am now carrying be lifted from me. She said it made absolutely no difference to her what is done, that she cared only about seeing me relieved and that Church matters are carried on as I should like them to be. I said “I know that comes from your heart.” I could not help the tears that rolled down my cheeks as I expressed appreciation to Clare and asked her to stay close to me. She said that she had talked to Dr. MacFarlane and he agreed that she should come over to the office every day for a short time to relieve me of any worries I might have on my mind and to take care of any office matters that I might have to turn over to her.”
Wed., 27 Mar., 1968:
“8:30 a.m.
Held a meeting with Presidents Brown, Tanner, Smith, and Elder Alvin R. Dyer.
Many matters were discussed; among them were:
Independence Visitors Center — Delay In Building Project
Elder Dyer mentioned that on two different occasions — one before he was called to be an Apostle, and once since — the matter of the proposed Visitors Center in Independence had been presented to the First Presidency; that on both occasions I had approved it, and that letters had been sent out signed by me to that effect. Elder Dyer said that there seemed to be some question as to the amount of money that it is proposed to expend on the Center in Independence, and that there also seems to be some question as to whether the project should be approved. President Tanner mentioned that this matter had been discussed in the meeting of the Expenditures Committee, and that he would explain to the Presidency later what took place at that time.
Definite Decision Made Regarding Building of Independence Visitors Center
Later, following the departure of the Brethren, Elder Dyer had a conference with me giving me the facts regarding the delay of the building project which I had approved in a letter addressed to Elder Mark E. Petersen on April 13, 1967, followed by a letter to my Counselors on November 3, 1967. Brother Dyer handed me copies of the letters to read, and I said, “What is the matter with these men?” I then said that the Expenditures Committee members should be advised of my desires in the matter
I authorized Elder Dyer to send letters to Elders Spencer W. Kimball, Ezra Taft Benson, Marion G. Romney, and the Presiding Bishopric. (See copies following)
“JOURNAL RECORD ALVIN R. DYER
WEDNESDAY, March 27, 1968
(Meeting of The First Presidency)
A meeting of the First Presidency was held with President McKay. I attended. All were present.
President Tanner presented two matters, as follows:
1. Recommendation that President LeRoy J. Buckmiller of the London Temple be released, and that his successor be chosen from the membership in England. Approved by President McKay.
2. The President approved the operation of a Central Trust in England that the
Saints in the payment of their tithes into it could individually receive back approximately 70% from trust accruals, to assist them since they cannot, by law, claim any deduction from their income taxes for contributions. Heretofore, a system has been in operation in the Manchester area, where the trust accruals have been paid back to the Stake. This will concentrate the operation in one and will be a direct benefit to the members.
At this point, nearing 9:00 a. m., it was announced by the Counselors that the L. D. S. Servicemen’s Committee had asked to see the President and would be there at 9:00 a. m.
(Independence Visitor ‘s Center Project)
While awaiting their arrival, I brought up the matter of the failure of the Independence Visitor’s Center project to be budgeted in the Expenditures Committee Meeting of the previous day. This, as I stated, despite the approval given to it by President McKay in writing on two previous occasions when a question was raised.
President Tanner, said that he felt the President should learn of the reactions of the Committee before they proceed. At this point, the Servicemen’s Committee arrived, and President Tanner said we could continue the discussion on this after they left.
(Comment:)
As a matter of record for this journal, President McKay, as far back as March of 1967, sent a letter to Elder Mark E. Petersen, requesting that he include in his budget, as Chairman of the Church Information and Bureau Committees, the amount of $500,000 for the erection of this Center which he approved. Later, when President Brown and Tanner did not lend support to the project, under date of November 3, 1967, the President sent a personal letter to his three Counselors expressing his desire that the project, as per the schematics, had his complete approval and requested them to see to it that it passed through the Expenditure Committee.
In the meantime, more work had been done on the drawings enabling the Building Committee to confirm their original estimate, and the matter was presented again to the Expenditures Committee on Tuesday, March 26, 1968.
(Discussion with President Tanner Beforehand)
When I learned that the Building Committee was ready to present the project for budget approval, I asked President Tanner if he thought it was needful to bring the matter up again before President McKay. His answer was that he did not feel it was necessary. Since the President had already approved it, it should go directly to the Expenditure Committee.
(Project Did Not Clear Expenditure Committee)
I learned from Mark B. Garff, on the afternoon of the meeting, that it had not cleared, that Marion G. Romney raised the question as to whether it actually had the approval of the President. It is also my understanding, from what Mark told me, that President Smith said that he did not favor the project.
The simple fact of the matter is that had any one of the Counselors stated that President McKay approved the project, as they had been asked to do, in seeing to it that it would pass the Expenditure Committee, the whole matter would have been settled right then. But this word of President McKay’s desires in the matter was not given.
(Discussion with Marion Romney)
I later talked to Marion Romney, who stated that had he known of the President’s desire in the matter, he would never have raised any question, for, said he, “I would cut off my arm rather than oppose the Prophet on anything.” I simply said, it is unfortunate that the word needed at the meeting, of the President’s wishes, was not spoken. But I assured him that it was the President’s desire that the project go forward without delay.
(Mark Petersen Talks to Marion Romney)
Later Elder Mark E. Petersen, as reported by him, while walking to the Temple meeting on March 28, 1968, asked Brother Romney if he knew that the President had sent him a letter some time ago, giving approval to the project. Brother Romney’s answer was the same to him, as to me.
After the Servicemen’s Committee left, the matter was not pursued further, since both Presidents Brown and Tanner said they had to leave for other appointments. (See below for conference on Independence matter.)
(L. D. S. Servicemen’s Committee Meet with The First Presidency)
Elder Harold B. Lee, as Chairman, was spokesman for the Committee. Elders Mark E. Petersen and Gordon B. Hinckley were present.
They requested permission to proceed with the formation of a plan to hold area, or regional, seminars for L. D. S. inductees into the Armed Forecs, hoping to accomplish:
A. Greater missionary activity;
B. As a safeguard to moral laxity;
C. To insure greater participation in the L. D. S. Servicemen’s Program.
The Seminar to last three days, to be repeated in various areas as needed.
lt was reported by Gordon Hinckley that only about one-half of the servicemen in duty associated with our L. D. S. military groups, and that only about 18 out of 100 were ever interviewed by their Bishops before going into the service.
President McKay gave his complete approval to the proposed project, asking how we each felt.
My comment concerned the making of the project two-pronged, first to labor with our Bishops concerning their duties of interview and closeness with the Aaronic Priesthood, and that this proposed project should in no way interfere with that. Brother Lee said he thought that this activity would make the Bishops more conscious of their obligations with the Aaronic Priesthood, and should not take this prerogative from the Bishop, which he agreed should not be done.
(Personal Visit with The President)
Further Discussion on Independence
After the others had left, I was the last to shake hands with the President and he asked me to stay longer.
I reported to the President, the conversation I had had with Mark Garff concerning the fact that the Independence Visitor’s Center project had not cleared the Expenditure Committee.
I opened my briefcase file and gave to the President copies of the two letters that he authorized be sent giving assurance that it was his desire that the project be passed through the Expenditure Committee:
A. Letter to Elder Mark E. Petersen, April 13, 1967;
B. Letter to the Counselors in the First Presidency, Nov. 3, 1967.
He read them both and then said to me, “What is the matter with these men?” I stated that neither of his Counselors spoke up to advise the Expenditures Committee that it was his desire that the matter be approved, as he had requested them to do, and that had they done this, there would have been no opposition. His answer was that the Committee members should be advised of his desires in the matter.
(Letters Sent to Committee Members)
Independence Project to go Forward
In consequence of the above, letters were sent, with the President’s complete approval, to Spencer W. Kimball, Ezra Taft Benson, Marion G. Romney, and the Presiding Bishopric. (A copy of these letters is made part of this journal.)
(See following letters)
(Robert McKay Visits Father and Joins in Discussion)
During my visit with President McKay, right while he was reading the two letters which the President authorized be sent, (referred to above) his son Robert McKay came into his father’s office to inquire as to how he felt, saying that he did not want to interrupt anything. His father said that he felt fine, and indicated that his son should stay, which he did.
(Robert McKay Remains to Hear His Father s Statement)
Project Must Go Forward
Robert remained for 10 or 15 minutes participating to some extent in the discussion. His father handed him the letter he had sent to his Counselors, expressing his desires concerning the Independence Visitor’s Center. He read it over and said, “Well, that should be sufficient,” but as stated it seemed not to be. President McKay then, very distinctly, said that the project must go forward, and that I was to inform Mark Garff go ahead with the plans and that the money would be obtained. Robert heard this, and he heard me say, if I say this to Brother Garff he will think it is me saying it. Whereupon the President said if he doubted my report to him that he was to call him for confirmation.
Robert and I left the President shortly thereafter, and as we stood in the hall waiting for the elevator, Robert said to me, that by his staying I at least had a witness to what his Father had said.
I later called Mark Garff and relayed the President’s wishes stating that if he wanted confirmation he could contact the President. He answered that this would not be necessary and that he would go to work on it.
(Visit of Senator Robert Kennedy with President McKay)
President McKay had expressed a willingness to receive Senator Robert Kennedy, and arrangements were made through Wayne Owens, for the meeting to take place at 2:30 p.m. on this day. Later, because of delays in Kennedy’s schedule, the time was set at 5:30 p. m., finally taking place at 6:30 p.m.
I welcomed Senator Kennedy at the door of the President’s apartment. Wayne Owens was with him and introduced him to me. He looked much younger than I had imagined him to be. I introduced him to President McKay. Clare Middlemiss was there, contributing much to the brief meeting by displaying a bound scrapbook of Senator Kennedy’s brother John F. Kennedy, former President of the United States, and his visits with President McKay. The scrap book, a handsomely bound black volume with the initials J. F. K., contains photographs and articles of the former President’s contacts with President McKay. Robert Kennedy was delighted with it, thumbing through many of its pages. When he left he expressed the hope that just a tiny one would be started for him with President McKay.
Senator Kennedy thanked President McKay for receiving him, and stated that his brother thought very highly of President McKay and the good that he accomplished. He commented that the last talk his brother gave in the tabernacle, which was on September 26, 1963, he regarded as the best speech his brother ever made, and that he had recently listened to a tape of it with his mother.
President McKay was very gracious and said how delighted he was for their meeting. The Senator did not stay long. It appeared that he was pleased with his visit.
Others present, consisted of the press, radio, and television representatives. These were: Claudell Johnson, Deseret News; Frank Jensen, Time Magazine; Mickey Gallivan, KUTV News; Herb Laughner, UPI; Henry Smith, Church Press Agent; Paul Smith, KSL; Gail Boon, KSL; and Gabe Novell, KSL. Also present was Lola Gygi, Assistant to Clare Middlemiss.
7 p.m.
(Meeting with President McKay with His Personal Secretary, Clare Middlemiss)
After Senator Kennedy and the others had gone, I attended, as I was requested to by the President, a short meeting, pertaining to certain matters which were to be presented to the General Authorities in the pre-conference Temple meeting, the following morning. As preliminary to our discussion at this time the following is given.
(President McKay requests Names from General Authorities to Fill Vacancies)
Acting upon direct instruction from President McKay, President Joseph Fielding Smith announced to the brethren in the General Priesthood Board Meeting on March 13, 1968, that they were requested to submit confidentially to the President names of brethren whom they recommended to fill the vacancy in the First Quorum of Seventy and also an assistant to the Twelve to take the place of myself.
In the ensuing days the President received quite a number of sealed envelopes from the brethren, but not from all. At the request of the President, Clare Middlemiss tabulated the various recommendations, and I was asked to meet with him to discuss the names. (It is to be stated here that I had nothing whatsoer to do with the request made by the President, wondering myself how the matter would be implemented.)
It was in the meeting with President McKay following the Kennedy visit, that the names were discussed and the decision reached by the President, as to who was to be recommended.
(To Be Sustained As a Member of the First Presidency)
I learned at this time, that the President had decided to present my name to be a member of the First Presidency. Although some references had been made to it by him to others, (Clare Middlemiss, Henry Smith)–I had not discussed the matter with him since the time of the First Presidency’s first meeting following the October Conference of 1967, when President Brown asked for a clarification of my status with the First Presidency. I, at a later date, discussed it with President Tanner as recorded in this Journal, but at no time did I speak to the President about it, feeling that if he wanted me sustained in the First Presidency he would announce it.
Thus, in this meeting, I learned of the President’s desire concerning myself.
After reviewing the names submitted by the brethren it was the President’s direct decision to call Marion D. Hanks, a member of the Seventy’s Presidency, to be an Assistant to the Twelve, and that Hartman Rector, of the Potomac Stake, who lives in Virginia, be called to the Seventy’s Presidency. He was recommended by Ezra Taft Benson. I know Brother Rector and strongly supported this recommendation. The President seemed greatly moved with regard to his call.
The other vacancy in the Seventy’s Presidency, it was thought at first, was to be filled by Charles Walker Whitman of the West Utah Stake, but there was a question concerning this appointment. A telephone call to me from Marion Hinckley, Stake President, late that evening, revealed a situation of his being seen in the company of a Brother Workman, who had been charged with molesting boys. This new information seemed sufficient not to choose Brother Whitman, although he came highly recommended otherwise. Thus, the appointments were tentatively arrived at. The President wanted to think and pray about them.”
Thur., 28 Mar., 1968:
“8:00a.m.
At my request Elder Alvin R. Dyer came over to the office at the Hotel Apartment. I also had asked my secretary, Clare Middlemiss, to be present to take notes. After prayerful consideration during the night and early morning hours, and still further consideration this morning, I made the decision that I would call the following brethren: Elder Marion D. Hanks as an Assistant to the Twelve; Elder Hartman Rector, Jr. as a member of the First Council of Seventy; and Elder Loren Charles Dunn as a member of the First Council of Seventy. I also informed Elder Dyer that I had decided to present his name at the meeting of the General Authorities this morning as a counselor in the First Presidency. I instructed Clare to return to her office to make a list of these brethren for me so that I could present their names to the General Authorities. I asked her to hand this list and the list of the General Authorities to speak at the various sessions of the General Conference to Elder Dyer so that he could hand them to me in the Temple.
Elder Dyer and Clare then left the apartment for the Administration Building. Before leaving, I heard the nurse tell Brother Dyer that the Doctor had given instructions that I was not to stay the full time of the meeting.
8:45 a.m.
Left for the Salt Lake Temple.
9:00 a. m.
Pre-Conference Meeting of all the General Authorities
As I reached my chair in the Council Room, Elder Dyer handed me the folder containing the sheets which my secretary Clare had finished typing just in time for the meeting.
I asked President Brown to conduct the meeting. All the General Authorities were present. After singing “He Died, the Great Redeemer Died”, Elder Gordon B. Hinckley offered the opening prayer. The following brethren then responded with brief remarks: Bishop John H. Vandenberg, Elder Boyd K. Packer, Elder Theodore Tuttle, Elder Alma Sonne, Elder Thomas S. Monson, Elder Harold B. Lee, President Joseph Fielding Smith, and President N. Eldon Tanner. The Sacrament was then served, with Elder Lee and Elder Kimball officiating and passing.
Following this, I presented the following names of brethren to be called and sustained at the coming Annual Conference of the Church:
As a Counselor in the First Presidency Elder Alvin R. Dver
As an Assistant to the Twelve Elder Marion D. Hanks
As members of the First Council of Seventy:
Elder Hartman Rector, Jr. — Fairfax, Virginia
Elder Loren Charles Dunn — Natick, Massachusetts
I then asked the Brethren for a sustaining vote of the brethren submitted. All raised their hands to sustain me in the names I had proposed.
Following this I directed President Hugh B. Brown to read the names of the Brethren assigned to speak at the various sessions of the Annual Conference.
11:50 a.m. As soon as these essential matters were taken care of, I yielded to Elder Dyer’s wishes who reminded me that the doctor, the nurse, and my secretary Clare had pleaded with me before leaving for the meeting not to stay too long so as to conserve my strength for the coming Conference.
Elder Dyer accompanied me to the elevator where Darcy Wright, who had driven me over to the Temple, was waiting to take me back to the apartment. I expressed the wish that Elder Dyer also accompany me to the apartment. When we arrived there I admitted to Elder Dyer that I was tired, but said that I was pleased and satisfied with that which had been done at the meeting this morning.
Following lunch, I rested for a short time, and then went into my office where I went over letters and papers, and gave consideration to Conference matters.”
Fri., 29 Mar., 1968:
“8:00 a. m.
At my desk. I feel fairly well this morning, after a good night’s rest.
9:00 a.m.
Held a meeting of the First Presidency. Presidents Brown, Tanner, and Smith, and Elder Alvin R. Dyer were present.
Some of the Matters Discussed:
Independence Visitors Center
President Tanner brought up the matter of the Independence Visitors Center project, which did not clear the Budget Committee on March 26, 1968. He stated that his feeling is that I should know of the opposition to it, but that if it is my desire that it should go forward that would settle the matter.
Elder Dyer spoke up and said that the desires of the President of the Church approving the project had been given twice in writing, and that members of the Expenditures Committee had also now received a letter from the President of the Church again stating his wishes for immediate approval of the project.
We held quite a discussion about this matter. President Brown and Tanner claimed that approval had been obtained from me without a full discussion to inform me of the facts, although I had been fully informed of all the facts, and had even gone over the plans for the new Center with Emil Fetzer and Mark Garff, and had approved of them, and had sent letters to the Counselors that the project should go forward. It seems that the Counselors are now objecting to the project, and stating that Elder Dyer is the only one in favor of it.
President Tanner said that Elder Mark E. Petersen was against the project, as was Mark Garff of the Building Committee. Elder Dyer said that he is certain that Elder Petersen is not opposed to it, as he knew of my letter to the Counselors — having a copy himself — and if they (the Counselors) had spoken just one word in the Expenditures Committee meeting to signify that I had approved of the project, there would not be all this agitation; but they (Presidents Brown and Tanner) had said nothing, and this was difficult for him (Elder Dyer) to understand.
Elder Dyer then turned to me and asked me if it is still my desire to have the Visitor’s Center at Independence built, and I answered, “Yes, it is”.
President Brown then said to me, “Wouldn’t you like to have the matter brought before the Quorum of the Twelve?” I said that this would be all right.
Elder Dyer said that inasmuch as the President of the Church had already given approval in writing for the project, and that it had gone too far to be interferred with, he objected. He said, “All that you brethren are attempting to do is to change the mind of the President.”
President Smith said: “Why do we want to put up a building there?” Elder Dyer said that this had all been discussed before in a First Presidency’s meeting when the letter came from the Manager of the City of Independence stating that they would like to use our vacant Temple property for a Boy’s Club if we did not use the property ourselves. Fearing condemnation of our Temple land there, it was decided that we should build a Visitors Center on the land. Elder Dyer then said that he would not question the matter being brought before the Twelve if they were told all the facts pertaining to the condemnation procedures of our Temple land. President Brown answered, “Oh, so you claim to know more than the Quorum?”, and Elder Dyer said, “President Brown, you know I do not mean that. I am saying that they will have to know all the facts before they can decide.”
However, after all the discussion, the fact still remains that I feel that we should do something with our property in Independence, and if I remember correctly the matter was brought before the Twelve sometime ago by Elder Mark E. Petersen when he received a copy of my letter approving of the project.
(See copies of letters of approval of this project under date of March 27, 1968.)
Later, Elder Mark E. Petersen gave Elder Dyer complete assurance of his support of this project. (For further detail see copy of First Presidency minutes which follow.)
[First Presidency Meeting Minutes:]
Independence, Missouri Visitors Center
Elder Dyer brought before the Presidency for consideration the proposed construction of the Visitors Center in Independence, Missouri. President Tanner mentioned that this matter was brought to the consideration of the Expenditures Committee in their recent meeting and the brethren of the committee said that if it is the direction of President McKay that the center be built, that is all there is to the matter and they were prepared to support it; that, however, otherwise they would like to question it because they did not feel that we could justify an expenditure of $600,000 in that area for the purpose mentioned and they did not see why we should have a visitors center there where there are so few people, that they are trying to have these visitors centers in areas where large numbers of people come. He said it was not a question of opposing President McKay’s direction but they wanted to know for certain this was his direction and his desire that this should be built, that if that was the President’s direction it was his responsibility and there was no further question.
Elder Dyer said that President McKay sent a letter to Mark E. Petersen who is chairman of the Church Information Committee nearly a year ago expressing his desire that the center be built and asking Brother Petersen to include it in his budget for last year, that at that time it ran into some problem and the President then, as he understood it, sent a letter to Presidents Brown, Tanner and Smith asking that it be passed through the Expenditures Committee at the earliest possible date so that arrangements could be made for the ground breaking ceremony on August 3rd of this year. He said that this was before he was called to be an apostle, that it was presented to President McKay at that time and he approved it as to the amount and that the amount still remains the same as originally estimated. President Tanner said that President Brown, President Smith and he do not know anything about this other than the letter that came to them. He said they felt that if this were President McKay’s direction they were behind it and would say nothing about it; that, however, it would seem a little out of the ordinary for Brother Dyer to get President McKay to write a letter to has counselors asking that this be done.
Elder Dyer said that the letter was not sent at his request but at the request of Mark E. Petersen. President Tanner said that Brother Petersen had said he was doing it simply because the President asked him to do it. He reiterated that if these were the President’s instruction we would go forward with it. President Tanner also said that Mark Garff said that if that is President McKay’s instructions he was behind it, but otherwise both of them questioned it.
President Smith said that he was not in favor of it, that he did not favor building a building like that in Independence. Elder Dyer said he wanted to say something that was perhaps not generally known. He stated that this had been going on for over a year and there are many ramifications connected with it, that in the first place, when he came back from the Central States Mission, President McKay called him in and said that he wanted him to proceed with the erection of the Liberty Bureau of Information which had been held in abeyance all the time Brother Dyer was in Europe. This has since been completed at a cost of much more than the proposed cost of the bureau in Independence. He said the President then gave him a specific charge that he was to be sort of a watchman on the tower back there to watch development of conditions in Missouri and the things that needed to be done, and that he, Brother Dyer, was to report to President McKay personally on the matter, and this he had done. In the meantime he said two communications have been received, one from a civic organization in Independence requesting that the Church lease to them certain lands for the building of a boys home which was turned down. Later a letter was received from Keith Wilson, the acting city manager, wanting to know what we intended to do about this 18 acres of land we have in Independence since they themselves were interested in obtaining it for civic use. They had already obtained the Wagoner estate of 22 acres knowing that this property had been condemned for the Chrisman High School, which situation the Church got out of by giving them a donation. Now he said they have come back and mentioned a new act by the government whereby the government would pay 50% of the cost of any open land the city wants to obtain for the preservation of historic sites. This land Elder Dyer said is temple land, 18 acres of the total 63 acres of the temple site. He said the Church never sold this land but lost it by tax deed and they were instructed not to sell it even at the risk of their lives. He said that while we lost it by tax deed we got some of it back by purchase when President Duffin and President Bennion were presidents of the mission, and that the 18 acres we own is just an open field next to the Reorganized Church auditorium, and the city wanted that property. He said that when President McKay received the letter from Keith Wilson the President asked him to go back there and discuss with them the whole proposition, which he did, and this he had reported in a meeting of the First Presidency. They had said that if we would do something with the property and improve it they would in the meantime put a chain link fence around it if something were put there and the city would not be concerned with any proceedings to condemn the land.
The second phase of the project he said is that we have spent unlimited amounts of money in many places throughout the Church but in this place that is perhaps the most destined place in the Church we have spent practically nothing to keep in the minds of the people of this country and our Church the responsibilities we have with regard to that consecrated land. He said that we would be doing an injustice to the Lord and everyone else if we lost this property wilfully, and that is what we would do.
The third phase he said is to get the tourists there. He mentioned at the Truman Memorial Library, which is only a few miles from this property, over a quarter of a million visitors call each year. Independence is between Kansas City and St. Louis, Missouri. Kansas City is a city of a million people and we have just purchased two radio stations there. He said we are only 150 miles from the Ozarks, which last year had 11 million tourists. He said that if anyone thinks we are not going to get visitors there, that is just poor reasoning, that it will be one of the most prominent bureaus we have in the Church and then we will be fulfilling our obligations spiritually and will satisfy the city, and he thought there was no justifiable reason for holding it up inasmuch as the President had approved it personally on two different occasions.
President Tanner said that there is no one of the General Authorities who would not back the President all the way but that they do feel that in a matter of this importance the President should know their feeling about it. He said that if this were brought before the Twelve without any direction by the President he doubted very much if the building would be approved. Elder Dyer did not feel that because there may have been some improper procedure in the way the matter was handled that the proposition should be held up. President Tanner said that all that the Committee on Expenditures last Tuesday decided was to find out whether or not the letter that President McKay had written is to be implemented and if it is there is nothing further to do about it and they will support it because President McKay directed it, but if left to their personal judgment they would have voted against it. President Brown, speaking of the Expenditures Committee meeting, said that when this matter was mentioned the committee members did not want President McKay to assume the total responsibility for it, that it was thought that others should be consulted and given the opportunity to express their opinion and give the President the benefit of their judgment, and then abide by his decision. He suggested that the question be taken to the Twelve to see how they feel about it. He said he believed that all of them will feel like President Smith does, that it should not be done; that is, that we should not spend at least $600,000 in Independence on a project where we have so few people and that even though there may be millions visiting the Ozarks and the Truman set-up they would not come to our visitors center unless we have something to show and we would not have something to show unless we imported it. However, he said if in spite of all this the President wished personally to take the responsibility for building the structure the brethren would abide by his feelings and support him. He said that it came to them in a round about way ratter than in the usual channels and it was thought it would be the part of wisdom if their opinion were asked before a decision is reached. It was the final decision of the President that the matter should be taken to the Twelve for their consideration and recommendation.”
Wed., 3 Apr., 1968:
“8:30 a.m.
Held a meeting of the First Presidency in my office in the Hotel Utah apartment. Presidents Brown, Tanner, Smith, and Elder Alvin R. Dyer were present. President Thorpe B. Isaacson still absent on account of a stroke.
The First Presidency — Discussion Regarding Counselors “In” or “To” the First Presidency
It seemed that the matter of choosing additional counselors in the First Presidency most concerned the counselors this morning. Secretary Anderson was asked to read the following excerpt from the minutes of the Council meeting of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve held Thursday, March 28, 1968, at which meeting I was not in attendance:
“Elder Lee mentioned that there is something that is confusing the Church which he wished to mention, namely, the appointment of counselors in the First Presidency. He said that if these brethren were given the designation of counselors ‘to the First Presidency,’ there would be no discussion or confusion. He referred to the 22nd verse of the 107th Section of the Doctrine and Covenants reading as follows:
“‘Of the Melchizedek Priesthood, three Presiding High Priests, chosen by the body, appointed and ordained to that office, and upheld by the confidence, faith, and prayer of the Church, form a quorum of the Presidency of the Church.’
“Elder Lee thought the Twelve should make an expression on the matter here for what it is worth. He said we have precedents; that, for instance, when Brigham Young became the head of the Church as the president of the Twelve after the Prophet’s death for three years he presided over the Church as President of the Twelve, and at that time two brethren were sustained as counselors to the Twelve. That was done again in President Taylor’s time when President Young’s counselors were made counselors to the Twelve.
“President Tanner said that as he understood it Brother Lee was suggesting that he would like an expression from the Twelve as to a resolution recommending that additional counselors should be designated as counselors ‘to the First Presidency’ instead of counselors ‘in the First Presidency.’
“Elder Romney moved that this be the sentiment of the Council.
“Elder Petersen suggested that this change should be made also in the list of General Authorities that is used when they are sustained in the stakes. He said there is a lot of talk about it.
“Elder Lee said that this does not take anything away from these brethren, but it does define accurately what the Lord has said. President Joseph Fielding Smith said he thought that this was absolutely right.
“Elder Romney suggested that it would set forth the matter more accurately if the First Presidency were sustained, and then the counselors ‘to the First Presidency’ were sustained in a separate vote. President Smith agreed with this upon being asked his opinion about it.
“Elder Romney’s motion that it be the sentiment of the Council that these three additional counselors be designated as counselors ‘to the First Presidency’ was seconded by Elder Howard W. Hunter and unanimously approved.
“Elder Lee said that he felt the President should be informed of the discussion that is going on all over the Church by gospel scholars and others, and of the action taken this morning by the Council of the Twelve. He said he felt that the revelation is explicit on the matter.
“It was agreed that this should be called to the President’s attention at once so that if it meets with his approval, these brethren would be sustained in the manner indicated at the coming conference. “
After hearing the foregoing President McKay indicated his approval and said he felt that that is the way it should be.
(See later decision made by President McKay after a meeting with President Joseph Fielding Smith, and Elder Alvin R. Dyer on April 4, 1968 — Decision reversed. Also see copy of Council minutes held April 11, 1968, and copy of Elder Dyer’s minutes for a further discussion of this matter, at which time the term “counselors ‘in’ the First Presidency”was upheld.)
Counselors — sustaining of as “Prophets, Seers and Revelators”
The question was raised as to whether, in presenting the General Authorities of the Church at General Conference, the counselors to the First Presidency should be sustained as Prophets, Seers and Revelators. Elder Dyer maintained that when one is called to the apostleship he is automatically a Prophet, Seer and Revelator by virtue of that calling. He also mentioned that when he was chosen to be an apostle last October this matter had come up and that I had ruled at that time that he was to be sustained as a Prophet, Seer and Revelator because of his calling to be an apostle. He mentioned that it was in Kirtland, Ohio when the apostles were first designated as Prophets, Seers and Revelators, that before that time they had not been sustained as Prophets, Seers and Revelators, but that the Prophet Joseph Smith at that time said that they who hold the apostleship were Prophets, Seers and Revelators and they were so sustained at that conference in Kirtland. President Smith agreed with President Tanner that this had reference to the Twelve. It was mentioned that President Smith is sustained as a Prophet, Seer and Revelator as President of the Twelve, that President Isaacson is not an apostle, and that Elder Dyer is the only one involved.
I gave my consent for Elder Dyer to be included in the group to be sustained as Prophets, Seers and Revelators.
The First Presidency — Signatures on Letters, Documents etc.
The question was raised as to whether the letters to be signed by the First Presidency in the future should carry the names of the three brethren of the First Presidency, namely, President David O. McKay and his counselors Hugh B. Brown and N. Eldon Tanner, or if the signatures of the counselors to the First Presidency should be included. The suggestion was made that inasmuch as it has been decided that the First Presidency consists of the President and his two regular counselors that it would seem that the First Presidency letters should carry their signatures only. President Smith indicated that it was his feeling that that is the way it should be done. President Tanner questioned the desirability of attaching four or five signatures to a letter sent out by the First Presidency except in very special cases. President Smith and Elder Dyer concurred in this feeling.
I said: “All right”.
Elder Dyer said that he thought that as counselors to the First Presidency they should be kept advised, and it was decided that President Smith and Elder Dyer be given copies of letters setting forth decisions made by the First Presidency in their meetings. (See Elder Dyer’s minutes on the above discussion which follow.)
“JOURNAL RECORD ALVIN R. DYER
WEDNESDAY, April 3, 1968
At 8:00 a.m. I attended the opening exercises of the Regional Representatives of the Twelve Seminar held in the 17th Ward Chapel, but was called out of the Seminar by note, the information of which came from my secretary, to attend the meeting of the First Presidency.
(Meeting of the First Presidency)
I arrived at the President’s apartment at 8:35 a.m., and was greeted by the words of the President, ‘He is here.’ All were present.
The following matters were discussed before the President.
President Tanner presented a motion by the Z.C.M.I. Executive Committee that the salary of Harold Bennett be increased from $35,000 to $40,000 annually, the first increase in over 20 years. It was approved.
President Tanner made the motion that President Peterson of the Manti Temple be given an honorable release, due to a condition of ill health. The President approved, and President Tanner is to seek the one to replace him, and bring this recommendation to the President.
(Counselors to the First Presidency)
Joseph Anderson next read a joint resolution from the Quorum of the Twelve, which they had arrived at with Presidents Brown and Tanner present in a meeting following the pre-conference General Authorities meeting in the Temple on March 28, 1968. Wherein they recommended that those called to serve in the First Presidency, other than the first and second Counselor, be sustained before the members as Counselors to the First Presidency, instead of Counselors in the First Presidency, that only the three constituted the Quorum of the First Presidency.
I opposed the motion simply because President Smith and I had been called by the President to serve him, and this manner of presentation nullified that particular relationship. But the Counselors, (Brown, Tanner), persisted with the President, obtaining from President Smith, without his really recognizing any distinction between “in” and “to.” So he said he approved the motion. There was some discussion regarding the revelations on the subject, and President Smith attempted to read D&C 107:79, but was told that this did not apply. It was plain to see that he was confused about the issue, and President McKay, after hearing brother Smith’s assent, gave approval, but I am confident that he did not understand what the two Counselors were getting at. This was borne out by events that followed.
(Prophets, Seers and Revelators)
With this approval, President Brown and President Tanner next pursued the matter of whom were to be sustained as Prophets, Seers, and Revelators, contending that only the First Presidency, meaning the three, the members of the Quorum of Twelve, and Presiding Patriarch. I took issue with this that all Apostles were so designated, that these powers were inherent with the calling, and President McKay sustained this, because I made it clear to him as to what was involved and his answer was definite.
(Signatures on First Presidency Letters)
The next motion by the Counselors, and these three things seemed to be linked together, concerned the signatures to be placed upon First Presidency correspondence. President Tanner said it was confusing, misleading, and cumbersome to have so many signatures on their letters. But, what with the first motion being apparently approved, there seemed no point in taking issue with this point.
I asked the question how the additional Counselors could be kept informed if they did not sign the letters. The answer was that carbon copies would be given to President Smith and I, on rnatter discussed in First Presidency meetings.
(Comment:)
It is a matter of record that these three points were discussed, and contended against by the First and Second Counselors, when Joseph Fielding Smith and Thorpe B. Isaacson were made Counselors in the Presidency at the 135th SemiAnnual Conference of 1965. It has been an aggravation to them since, and now that I am to be placed as a Counselor in the First Presidency, the whole matter is up again. This time however, with regard to the first point, that of Counselors “in” or “to”, they have sought for and obtained a recommendation from the Quorum of the Twelve, with Elder Lee spearheading. It is to be noted that President McKay was not present at this meeting, and since he is the President and it is he who has called additional Counselors to him, it seemed to me that his right took precedence over that of the Quorum.
(Unanimous Approval in Temple Meeting)
It is to be noted also, that in the Temple meeting, President McKay himself proposed my name to become a Counselor in the Presidency, and this was unanimously approved. No one dissented. Yet in a later meeting, as heretofore referred to, they proceeded to alter, by joint motion, the words of the President.
(President McKay Designated the Proper Way)
When the matter came up before President McKay in 1965, then in better health than now, clearly and distinctly directed how the additional Counselors were to be sustained by the members, and this as “Counselors in the First Presidency.”
(New Presidents of Seventies Introduced to President McKay)
Later in the morning, I met Hartman Rector and Loren Dunn in the First Presidency’s office foyer, being asked by Clare Middlemiss who was with President McKay, to bring them over to him for interview. This I did. But as they waited in the north room of the President’s apartment I went into the President’s office with Clare to tell him that these two brethren were here for their interview.
(The President Asked what the Earlier Meeting was all About)
But before Hartman Rector was introduced, the President, much more alert now, said to me these exact words: ‘What was that all about this morning?’ There can be no doubt that the President did not fully understand the motions which the Counselors had brought up, and was asking for clarification.
The President had already interviewed Marion D. Hanks, and then one by one interviewed Hartman Rector and Loren Dunn. The President told me he was pleased with the selection of these two brethren.
These new brethren were of course shocked, but most humble and happy in their callings.
(Regional Representatives Seminar)
I attended the Regional Representatives Seminar in the afternoon from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. taking part with Marion G. Romney in the presentation dealing with Priesthood Home Teaching.
(Telephone Calls from President Joseph Fielding Smith and Ezra Taft Benson)
During the late evening I received telephone calls from President Joseph Fielding Smith and Elder Ezra Taft Benson both referring to the motion of the Quorum of Twelve that additional Counselors be sustained as Counselors to the First Presidency. President Smith said he had already been sustained as a Counselor in the Presidency and that it should not be changed. Elder Benson said it should be as the President wanted it, since it involved Counselors whom he had called.
Both suggested that I see the President about it the following morning and each said that he would go with me if necessary. Clare Middlemiss, knowing of the same problem that existed in the minds of the Counselors (Brown and Tanner) when Presidents Smith and Isaacson were called, and knowing of the President’s decision at that time, suggested that I should talk to the President to make sure that he understood what they were attempting to do.
Because of the urgings of these two brethren, and the President’s question to me earlier in the day as to ‘what that was all about’ in the morning meeting of the First Presidency, I determined after prayerful thought to attempt to see President McKay the following morning.”
Thur., 4 Apr., 1968:
“8:00 a. m. Controversy over Sustaining Counselors in the First Presidency
In accordance with appointment, I met Elder Alvin R. Dyer in my office in the Hotel. I asked him to explain to me again what the counselors are so concerned about in the sustaining of the counselors at the coming Conference. He said that the issue in question is whether or not the counselors, other than the first and second counselors, should be sustained as counselors “In” the First Presidency or counselors “To” the First Presidency. Elder Dyer said that he felt that sufficient time had not been given to the matter yesterday morning at the First Presidency’s meeting to give me a chance to go into the matter and understand the real significance of the issue, or what it would mean in operation.
Brother Dyer said that he had not said much in the meeting yesterday because President Smith seemed to concur, but that later, when he learned of President Smith’s true feelings in the matter, he felt, as did President Smith, that the matter should be considered again. He said that President Smith had commented that he would like to talk to me about it if I wanted him to.
I told Elder Dyer to get President Smith on the telephone and have him come right over. He was attending the Seminar of Regional Assistants to the Twelve, but excused himself from the meeting and came right over.
President Smith soon arrived and expressed to me his real feelings in the matter, stating, “I do not know what the Counselors (Presidents Brown and Tanner) mean by the word “To”, or any other word. I feel that any man that the President calls to be a Counselor is IN the First Presidency, and nothing can change that.”
Counselors to be sustained as “In” the First Presidency.
I said that the sustaining should be done as it had been done previously when I called President Brown, President Smith, and President Isaacson–Counselors “In” the First Presidency. That they will be sustained as such.
At this point I called Joseph Anderson and told him to come right over, since he is preparing the list of the General Authorities to be presented for the sustaining vote of the Church, so that he could make minutes of this meeting and have the list properly prepared.
Just before he arrived, Sister Clare Middlemiss had brought over the list of General Authorities which previously had been prepared by Joseph Anderson. On this list Brother Anderson had changed the word “In” to “To”.
I told Brother Anderson to change the word “To” to “In”. and to notify Presidents Brown and Tanner that the change had been made by me this morning. Brother Anderson was quite upset, and I was displeased with the manner in which he accepted my instructions. He argued with President Smith and Elder Dyer, taking it upon himself to say: “I do not agree with your interpretation of Section 107:79; it is erroneous.”
Elder Anderson at this point asked that Presidents Brown and Tanner be called over to defend the other side, and I said, “It is not necessary; I have given him instructions as to what he was to do.” (For further details see copy of minutes by Elder Alvin R. Dyer.)
President Smith and Elder Dyer then left.
April Conference — Newspaper Announcement of Counselors
Henry Smith, Press Secretary for the Church, called at the office by appointment. My secretary Clare accompanied him. Brother Smith explained that he had heard that there is some indecision about the manner in which the counselors are to be sustained, and that he had gone to Elder Mark E. Petersen, under whom he works, and asked him how he is to have the announcement printed in the news media. He said Elder Petersen had told him to go directly to President McKay and get his answer from him.
I instructed Brother Smith that the counselors in question would be sustained as counselors “IN” the First Presidency. Consequently the news media carried the announcement as I had instructed, although President Brown had presented President Smith and President Dyer to the Conference assembled as counselors “TO” the First Presidency.
Following the departure of Brother Smith and Clare, I took a much needed rest. A troublesome day!”
“(Minutes by Elder Alvin R. Dyer)
At 7:30 a. m. I called the President’s apartment. Nurse Jerry answered. I asked if the President was in his study and if so could I speak with him on the telephone. She replied that he was in the study looking at the newspaper, but doubted if he could handle a phone conversation. I then asked her to ask the President if I might see him this morning. The nurse asked and the President said for me to come right over.
(Meeting with President McKay)
I reached his apartment shortly after 8:00 a. m. He greeted me with a smile and said he was glad to see me. I expressed my appreciation for his willingness to see me and that I was glad that he was looking better than yesterday.
For the next 30 minutes I endeavored to explain to the President what was happening. I was confident that sufficient time had not been given in the First Presidency meeting of the day before, for him to fully understand what had transpired. I made up on two separate sheets of paper the two methods of presenting the First Presidency and Counselors to the Saints for their sustaining. He read each carefully and asked me to explain, and this I did. He repeated this same question twice more, and each time I explained it as best I could, pointing up the “in” and the “to” elements.
I felt that I was not getting through, and said I was sorry that I was not able to explain it better. He said, “You have done just fine.” I really believe at this point he could see the difference; at least as the Counselors were endeavoring to set it up.
I called his attention to the meeting of the previous morning when he had nodded his assent to the Counselors being sustained as “to” the First Presidency, and had offered no personal opposition because President Smith seemed to concur. But that when I learned of President Smith’s true feelings in the matter, and that the whole affair was a repeat of what the Counselors had sought before, then I determined to see him. I said to the President, “I trust I have not done wrong in bringing this to you.” His answer was very affirmative that I had done right. He then said that the sustaining should be done as before with the Counselors “In” the First Presidency.
I mentioned to him that President Smith had said he would come and express his feelings if he wanted him to. He said that President Smith should be sent for. (He was attending the Seminar for Regional Representatives.)
(President Brown Calls on Phone)
About that time, or a little before, the nurse, Mrs. Noyce, came in and said that President Brown was on the phone and wanted to know if the President wished to hold a meeting with the Counselors. I intimated to the President that if they came it could be settled, but he told the nurse that he did not want to see them.
(President Smith Arrives)
President Smith soon arrived and conveyed to the President his feelings in the matter which were essentially as I had reported to him. President McKay asked President Smith how he felt about the sustaining, and President Smith replied that he did not know what the Counselors meant by the word “to”, and then he said that no matter what word was used — “in”, “to”, or any other word, he felt that any man that the President called to be a Counselor is in the First Presidency, and that nothing could change that. President McKay at this point said again that the sustaining should be done as it has been done in the previous conferences.
(Joseph Anderson Called In)
In order to get the sustaining properly set up in type, President McKay asked that Joseph Anderson be sent for, since it is his responsibility to prepare the list. Before he arrived, Clare Middlemiss brought in to the President the list of General Authorities which he had prepared. It contained the two changes which have been referred to, namely, that the President, the first and second Counselors in one block, and then the other Counselors in another block as Counselors “to” the First Presidency.
President McKay instructed Brother Anderson to change the word “to” to that of “in”. He seemed quite upset and said that the reason he had typed it this way was because of the meeting of the First Presidency the day before and it was, he thought, decided that it was to be that way.
There was some disputation about the matter between Brother Anderson, President Smith and myself. Brother Anderson felt to say that President Smith’s interpretation of Section 107:79 was erroneous, and that President Smith had approved the motion of the Quorum of the Twelve, and he wondered now why he was seeking to have the sustaining done as before. President Smith replied that it did not matter to him whether the word “to” or “in” was used, he felt he was a Counselor to President McKay and this should not be changed.
Joseph Anderson asked that President Brown and President Tanner be called over to defend the other side. But President McKay apparently did not feel this needful.
It was a little difficult to understand Brother Anderson’s contention against continuing the sustaining as heretofore, in the face of the President’s wishes.
As we left, he said to the President that he was just a secretary and had no voice in the matter; that he wanted it to be the way the President wanted it. The President said all right. (President Smith later commented to me that he had never heard anyone talk so insolently as did Joseph Anderson to him and to the President.)
(Not the Last of It)
I walked over to the Office with Brother Anderson. He seemed quite upset, saying, “I am afraid that you haven’t heard the last of this.” He stated further that he wished all this controversy did not exist, and that he would have to advise Presidents Brown and Tanner of the President’s desire. At this point, we both were looking at the front page of the sustaining of officers. I said, “All you will need to do is to change the word “to” to that of “in”, and all else will fall in line.” He reached down and with his pencil crossed out the word “to” writing above it the word “in” — saying, “I will advise the Counselors to change their copies.”
(Henry Smith Confers with President McKay)
Late in the afternoon, Henry Smith called at my office to get a copy of my talk for the conference, which I gave to him. He stated that he knew of the controversy on how President Smith and I were to be sustained at Conference and had asked Mark E. Petersen how he was to have it printed in the newspaper. Brother Petersen told him to go directly to President McKay for the answer as he would not commit himself. He told me that he had done this and that President McKay instructed him that we were to be sustained as Counselors in the First Presidency.
Both the Deseret News and Salt Lake Tribune account of the sustaining published it as “in” the First Presidency.”
Sat., 6 Apr., 1968:
“2:00 p. m.
Being very tired, I followed doctors’ orders and remained home for the fourth session of the Conference, and watched the proceedings by Television.
At my request President Tanner conducted this session. Statistical and financial reports were read by the clerk of the Conference, and President Hugh B. Brown presented the names of the General Authorities and General Officers of the Church for the sustaining vote of the Conference.
Two General Authorities were advanced to new assignments, and two new leaders were named to fill vacancies as follows:
Elder Alvin R. Dyer — was named as a counselor “to” the First Presidency.
Elder Marion D. Hanks — a member of the First Council of Seventy since 1953, was named as an Assistant to the Twelve.
Elder Hartman Rector, Jr. — of Fairfax, Virginia of the Potomac Stake was named to the First Council of the Seventy.
Elder Loren Charles Dunn — a native of Tooele, Utah and now a resident of Natick, Massachusetts, was named to the First Council of the Seventy.
Sustaining of Counselors
I noted with concern that President Brown in presenting the names of President Joseph Fielding Smith and Elder Alvin R. Dyer had them sustained by the members as counselors “to” the First Presidency instead of as counselors “in” the First Presidency as he had been notified to do.
This matter will have to be settled later. (See Council Minutes for April 11, 1968.)”
Mon., 8 Apr., 1968:
“At 9 a.m.
Held a meeting with the First Presidency in the office at the apartment. Presidents Brown, Tanner, Smith and Dyer were present. President Isaacson still confined to his home with a stroke .
Among the items discussed were:
Reorganized Church – – Alleged Revelation Received to Build a Temple
Elder Dyer reported that at the General Conference of the Reorganized Church which is now in session in Independence, on the first day of the Conference last Friday President Wallace Smith announced he had received a revelation that they were to build a temple in Independence, Missouri.
Elder Dyer said that in discussing the matter with him some time ago Wallace had told him that he felt they needed one; their people were constantly asking about it, and that this had been on his mind. He said that at 3:00 a.m. Thursday morning last, he received a revelation to the effect that they were to build a temple. Elder Dyer said that the Reorganized Church owns 35 acres of the temple site and they have a copy of the temple ordinances; that one of the Salt Lake Temple workers left the Church and went to the Reorganized Church several years ago and gave them a complete copy of the temple endowment ceremony. He said that Israel Smith, former president of the Reorganized Church, has showed this to him; that Israel said there are one or two mistakes in it which they would correct and use when they had a revelation to build a temple. Elder Dyer felt it was urgent that we go forward on the program to build a visitors center in Independence so that we can tell the truth about the matter to the people.
I was very interested in what Elder Dyer told us about this.
. . . .
Elder Dyer’s Setting Apart
While we were talking Joseph Anderson, the secretary, who had reached the hall, came back to inquire if I were going to set Elder Dyer apart, and if so he would remain to make minutes. I said, “No, I shall take care of that later.””
Tues., 9 Apr., 1968:
“9:00 a.m.
Did not hold a regular meeting of the First Presidency this morning; however, Brother Alvin R. Dyer called me and asked if he could see me, and I told him to come right over. He was at the office within ten minutes, and discussed the following matters with me:
April Conference — Sustaining of President Joseph Fielding Smith and Elder Alvin R. Dyer
Brother Dyer reported that my desires had not been adhered to with regard to the sustaining of President Smith and him as Counselors IN the First Presidency; that President Brown had presented them as Counselors TO the First Presidency. Furthermore, that he, Elder Dyer, has not been sustained as a Prophet, Seer, and Revelator.
I told Brother Dyer that I am vitally concerned about this, and asked him to bring the matter up in a meeting of the First Presidency.
As Elder Dyer got up to leave the office, I said to him: “I want you to stay close by my side”. I had a good feeling of the spirit of brotherhood as he came over to shake my hand and to say goodbye to me.”
Wed., 10 Apr., 1968:
“Setting Apart of Elder Alvin R Dyer as Counselor in the First Presidency
I told Clare that there are some matters I want cleared up before I set apart Elder Alvin R. Dyer as a member of the First Presidency. Clare explained that at the Saturday afternoon session of the April Conference (April 6), President Hugh B. Brown had presented both President Joseph Fielding Smith and President Thorpe B. Isaacson, together with Elder Alvin R. Dyer, as counselors “TO” the First Presidency instead of “IN” the First Presidency as I had instructed him to do.
I said, “Well, it is wrong, and it should have been “IN”.”
I then called secretary Joseph Anderson. He was not in so I asked Pearl his secretary to tell Brother Anderson to send me copies of ordinations I have previously given to Presidents Hugh B. Brown, Joseph Fielding Smith, and Thorpe B. Isaacson, all of whom were set apart as counselors “IN” the First Presidency.
I shall discuss this with my counselors at the first opportunity and have this matter cleared up.
Thur., 11 Apr., 1968:
“As I was not feeling very well today, I did not hold a meeting with the First Presidency this morning, nor did I attend the meeting of the First Presidency and Council of the Twelve held in the Salt Lake Temple starting at 10:00 a.m.
Sustaining of the Counselors IN or TO the First Presidency Discussed
Later I read the minutes of the meeting held in the Temple today, and have asked my secretary to include them with my diary of today so that a record will be made of the discussions the Brethren held regarding my appointments of additional counselors. I am also including a copy of Elder Alvin R. Dyer’s minutes as he was called upon at this meeting to make quite a defense of his position before all the Brethren.
My decision, after I had time to give more thought and prayer to the matter, as in the case of President Hugh B. Brown, President Joseph Fielding Smith, and President Thorpe B. Isaacson when I called them to be counselors, was that President Smith and Elder Dyer be sustained at the April Conference as counselors “IN” the First Presidency instead of “TO” the First Presidency. President Hugh B. Brown was so instructed through secretary Joseph Anderson on April 4, 1968 following a meeting with President Smith and Elder Dyer.”
“(These are minutes of Elder Dyer’s account of the discussion re: Sustaining of Counselors “to” or “in” the First Presidency)
J O U R N A L R E C O R D A L V I N R. D Y E R
THURSDAY, April 11, 1968
(Temple Meeting of First Presidency with the Quorum of the Twelve)
I did not receive any invitation to attend this meeting, and as I think of it, there is no reason why anyone should feel that I needed one. Nevertheless, since I had been sustained to the First Presidency, I felt it my responsibility to be there.
Upon arriving at the fourth floor of the Temple, the Quorum of Twelve were still in session of their regular Thursday meeting. It was about 9:45 a. m.
A little later Presidents Brown and Tanner arrived. President McKay had sent word that he would not attend. President Brown, especially, seemed disturbed that I was there. I told him I was not completely sure, but felt that it was my duty to attend the meeting. I inquired if the Independence Visitors’ Center would be brought up, that I was concerned about this. President Tanner then said, “You mean you want to attend that part of the meeting and leave.” I think he was asking a question. I said, not necessarily, since I felt it my place to be there.
We were in the small President’s ante room, as this conversation took place. President Brown stated that when Thorpe Isaacson attended the meetings, he dressed and undressed for the temple clothing in the other room with President Smith.
The custom, as I learned this morning, is to dress in the temple clothes for the first part of the conjoint meeting which is devoted to a prayer circle. Elder Benson loaned me a white shirt. I had the rest of the clothing in my locker.
President Brown conducted the meeting and welcomed me as having been sustained but not yet set apart, to the First Presidency. Following the prayer circle, the temple clothes were taken off for regular street clothing, and upon re-assembly to the First Presidency’s Room, matters of business were given attention. These principally on this day concerned a considerable back-log, because of General Conference and no temple meeting, of the following.
1. New Bishops and Ward Organizations
2. Division of Stakes and New Stake Presidents
3. Combining and Expanding the Above in Various Areas
4. Reports from Each Member of the Quorum of Twelve on Stake and Other
Assignments
All voiced approval of and referred to the inspiration of the General Annual Conference just concluded and other meetings connected with it. These included the Regional Representatives Seminar, Primary Conference Sessions, Welfare Meeting, etc.
(Names of New Temple Presidents Discussed)
The following names were openly discussed as potential presidents of temples, subject to formal submittal to the First Presidency for further discussion and approval from President McKay.
J. Stuart McMaster, for the Salt Lalie Temple, well known and highly vouched for by many of the Quorum.
Archie L. Boyack, for the Manti Temple. He, too, is well known and received much support from the Council members.
Glen Rex, for the Logan Temple, not so well known but highly recommended by ElRay Christiansen.
President Tanner explained that in keeping with a recently approved policy, temple presidents are called to serve from 3 to 5 years.
(Birth Control)
Elder Mark E. Petersen, Chairman of the Committee from the Twelve to study and then recommend a policy of the Church on birth control, reported that the Committee did not know how far to go, and they needed further direction from the Presidency. He said that he felt that the Church should either come out with a strong statement or say nothing about it at all. I stated the dual nature of the problem, but Gordon Hinckley felt that the teachings of the Church on chastity and morals adequately covered the unmarried phase, and that if a statement is made it should be directed to married people.
(President Broxvn and Tanner Speak to the Twelve on Certain Matters
Affecting the First Presidency)
One:
President Tanner read a statement which he prepared related to the Doctrine and Covenants 107:79; which he said had been used by different ones, (he meant President Smith and myself), to justify the calling of additional Counselors in the First Presidency. He stated that the calling of additional High Priests, as indicated in this scripture, pertained to the handling of Church Court cases, referred to the Presidency of the High Priesthood by Bishops. Yet he said when they were to be called they were designated as Counselors to the First Presidency.
Two:
President Tanner then said, it made no difference to him whether additional Counselors were sustained as “to” or “in,” the First Presidency, so long as harmony and cooperation existed, and that effort should not be made to reverse decisions reached by the First Presidency, for one reason or another, or by saying the President did not understand a particular matter today but he did on the following day.
Three:
President Tanner, then said he was glad that I was present, so that I could not say he had brought the matter up behind my back. He said he had discussed this with me before, and felt that this cooperative effort was needed for harmony.
Four:
President Brown then took over with comments which he referred to as “end runs,” and private talks with President McKay to influence his decisions.
He went into great detail to explain why he had presented the sustaining of Church Officers the way he had, particularly with regard to the additional Counselors as “to” the First Presidency and not “in” the First Presidency, which was unanimously approved and taken to President McKay for his consideration, and that the President had given approval in a meeting of the First Presidency to proceed with the change in the sustaining.
Five:
And that after this, I had gone with President Smith to President McKay and changed his mind on the subject. But of the change he had no official word, and consequently had presented to the members the order of sustaining in accordance with his last word from the President.
(My Reply to These Statements)
With these statements having been made, which I listened to patiently, but I cannot say without internal upheaval, placed a burden of responsibility to answer as best I could. Perhaps this whole affair should not have been cured here, but since it was brought up I had to answer. For the record, my answers will be oriented to the statement number.
One:
That President Tanner’s reference to 107:79, and his understanding of it represented an interpretation, the principle of which both President Smith and I did not agree with. For if the President could call additional Counselors, as many as twelve, “with power to act,” for court case he could also call them for other “important business,” as the revelation suggests.
I also stated two other things concerning this particular revelation. These are, that President Smith and I were not called by the Presidency of the High Priesthood, but by the President of the High Priesthood, therefore we could not rightfully be Counselors to anyone other than he who had called us. Secondly, if as President Tanner stated, this revelation refers only to the calling of additional High Priests to act as a High Court, then why were they trying to apply the wording of “the Presidency and its Counselors” to the case of President Smith and myself.
Two
With regard to President Tanner’s statement that it was not important to him whether the sustaining was done as “to” or “in”, I replied that it made no difference to me either providing there was no implication in sustaining us as “Counselor to the First Presidency,” to take from me in particular the Priesthood rights and privileges of my office and calling to the Apostleship, which was proven to be the case by the manner of sustaining by President Brown. For his wording had denied me the sustaining as a “Prophet, Seer, and Revelator,” which rights are inherent in the calling of an Apostle, and also denied my place on the Board of Education, both positions to which I was called by a Prophet of God. I stated further that to ordain me an Apostle, then sever my rights of this calling was not consistent. And this in the face of the confirmed feeling of President McKay so manifested in a recent First Presidency meeting.
At this point both President Brown and Tanner admitted before all that this was an oversight and should not have been done.
I then went to the record to show that only in one instance, had an additional Counselor ever been sustained as “to” the First Presidency. (This, no doubt, because the First Presidency united in making the call.)
The following were all sustained “in” the Presidency: John C. Bennett, Amasa Lyman, Hugh B. Brown, Joseph Fielding Smith, and Thorpe B. Isaacson. And that in the only five other instances the additional Counselor was sustained as a Counselor “to” the President of the Church and not the First Presidency. These were: Heber C. Kimball, Brigham Young Jr., Albert Carrington, John W. Young, and George Q. Cannon.
Three:
When President Tanner said he was glad I was there to hear his pointed statements instead of talking about them behind my back, it made me very grateful that I was present at the meeting to defend myself. But the fact remains that both he and President Brown intended to speak of these things before the Twelve, with hopeful anticipation, maybe, that I wouldn’t be there. This makes everything they said somewhat insincere.
Four:
In answer to President Brown and also President Tanner with regard to my meetings with President McKay, which they invariably referred to as “end runs,” and of trying to change the President’s decisions, I related to the brethren assembled, (all of the Quorum of Twelve were present except Richard L. Evans and LeGrande Richards), the complete events that transpired in my going to see President McKay concerning the sustaining of officers, which is covered in detail in the foregoing pages of this Journal. Sufficeth it to repeat here, that I went to the President for two reasons which seemed to me to be proper.
A. The President on the very morning of the First Presidency meeting, when the President is supposed to have approved the change in sustaining, in fact right after, asked what had been discussed that morning and what was it all about, and he wanted me to tell him.
B. The telephone call from President Smith, (Jessie talked to me, but President Smith was right by her side and told her what to say), wherein he stated that the manner in which he had been sustained “in” the First Presidency should not be changed, and asked if I would see the President, and if need be he would go with me or come if called.
I related to them further that my willingness to go along with the resolution from the Quorum of the Twelve in the meeting referred to was based on the nod of approval from President McKay and the sustaining of it by President Smith. But since the aftermath convinced me that neither were fully aware, at that time, of that which was agreed to, I determined to meet with President McKay and endeavor to explain the situation to him, which I did, as heretofore explained, and without imposing any answer upon the President. I stated that as the President understood the proposed change in sustaining, he spontaneously said that no change should be made.
I further related that President McKay then asked me to send for President Smith, who was attending the Regional Representatives Seminar. He came at once and conveyed to the President his feelings, which were the same as he had talked to me about the night before.
I stated that Joseph Anderson was then called to the President’s office to make sure that the wording for the sustaining of the additional Counselors was stated properly.
I related how, when I first sat down with the President regarding this matter, President Brown had called to see if the President wanted to hold a meeting, and of how I had suggested to him that they, the Counselors, should perhaps be invited to come over to settle the matter, but of how the President had said he did not want them to come over at that time, and he repeated this again after Brother Anderson’s arrival, who expressed to the President that he thought Presidents Brown and Tanner should be called over to discuss the change to be made on the sustaining sheets.
I related that Brother Anderson was instructed by President McKay to make the change and to advise Presidents Brown and Tanner of the change. (It is to be noted here that the Counselors already had their copies, and it amounted to only the changing of one word to conform to the President’s wishes, that of the word “to” to that of “in”.)
I stated that Joseph Anderson reported to me that he had advised President Brown and Tanner of this change twice, but that President Brown chose to ignore the President’s desire.
It was at this point that President Brown said that he did not take any orders from Joseph Anderson or anyone else, only from President McKay. But I replied, the message Brother Anderson gave you was from President McKay. He then said he felt justified in presenting the added Counselors as he did, based upon the earlier meeting.
Five:
In responding further to my reasons for meeting with the President, mostly alone, that I did this because of the President’s direct charge given to me many times to “stay close to him,” and to “be by his side,” and that actually, as an advisor to the President, I had the right to do this, because the Prophet so requested.
I related the conditions that came out into the open, at the first meeting of the First Presidency after the October 1967 Conference, whereat President Brown right at first raised the question as to my status in attending these meetings. That I had made an effort then to be recognized as a Counselor for smoother working relations, but both President Brown and Tanner vigorously opposed this. But they would recognize me as a special adviser to the President. I stated that at that time, as an advisor to the President, I would meet with him individually as occasion would necessitate it, that there was no other possible course, since I was denied a voice, so to speak, in the Presidency’s meetings.
(More About “End Runs”–Utah Idaho Sugar)
President Brown then said yes, but that I was not to make “end runs, ” and try to change the President’s mind. That if harmony was to exist, the Counselors would all have to abide by this.
I replied that this was agreeable to me unless the President called for me, and also if all the Counselors would follow the same procedure, which had not been the case. President Brown quickly retorted “Such as”–
I then related the instance in a First Presidency meeting when President Brown submitted the name of a non-member to serve on the Board of the Utah Idaho Sugar Company. The President requested that this be given further study and be re-submitted, but this was never done at a First Presidency meeting. Instead, President Brown got Lawrence McKay and Doug Love, and saw the President separately to obtain his approval of the non-member appointment.
That seemed to bring to an end President Brown’s contentions about “end runs”.
(End of Discussion, Thoughts on Sustaining)
This, with these few statements, seemed to end the discussion on this matter which, perhaps, should never have been brought before the Quorum of the Twelve, since as one of the Apostles (Elder Benson) said, “This is a matter for the President to decide.”
(The Whole Matter Just a Repeat)
Elder Benson raised the question as to whether or not this whole idea of the position of the added Counselors as to “in” or “to” was not first brought up when Joseph Fielding Smith and Thorpe B. Isaacson were first called. President Tanner replied that there was some discussion, but not on the “in” or “to” phase of it. Elder Hunter than stated that he remembered distinctly that the ”in” or “to” was discussed and that the President had ruled upon it then.
Elder Benson stated that it was the right of President McKay to say how it should be, and that when the two brethren were first called, and the President was more vigorous, he made the decision that they were to be sustained “in” the Presidency.
(Henry Smith Is Instructed by President McKay)
I referred to the quandary of Henry Smith, who sought an answer from Elder Mark E. Petersen as to how it should be carried in the news releases. I asked Elder Petersen to report on this. He stated that when Henry Smith asked him, he directed him to President McKay for the answer, and that Henry had gone to the President, who instructed him that the additional Counselors were to be sustained “in” the Presidency.
I mentioned, “Yes, and I was not around when President McKay gave him this instruction.”
Elder Stapley asked the question as to how the error could be corrected, and ventured should another conference session be called? But there was no action taken in response to his questions.
(Independence Visitors’ Center)
President Brown next brought up the proposed Visitors’ Center at Independence, Missouri. He mentioned the matter coming up before the expenditures committee, almost unsupported as to reason, and he felt that before $600,000.00 was spent in this out-of-the-way place, where there are only 9,000 members of the Church, he had recommended to President McKay that the matter be brought here for discussion.
(Comment:)
President Brown’s statement indicated a further effort to strike back at me, saying it was another “end run” and also because President McKay had made certain decisions regarding the project on his own, and had so notified Presidents Brown, Tanner, and Smith by letter. This project is simply the President’s desire, and the Counselors had not lined up on it.
(EIder Mark E. Petersen Defends Project)
I spoke up and said that Elder Mark E. Petersen, the Chairman of the Visitors’ Centers Committee, would speak for the project.
Elder Petersen did a very effective job in presenting happenings pertaining to the project, stating at first that he felt the money could be spent to better advantage elsewhere, but that when he received a personal letter from President McKay which conveyed the desire of the President, that the Center be built, he lined up with the President and had since been working with me on the project.
He referred to, and read parts of various letters, including the letter of Keith Wilson, City Manager of Independence, and the President ‘s reply, wherein the President committed the Church to the erection of a building on our temple land property to prevent its condemnation and that a news release on this went out from the Mayor’s office.
Elder Petersen also referred to letters sent by the President to his Counselors and members of the Expenditures Committee signifying his desire that the project be budgeted, that it could go forward.
Elder Benson, a member of the Committee, said he had received a personal letter from the President on it and so far as he was concerned, that was it.
Elder Romney, who had raised the question in the Expenditure Committee meeting, stated that he did so because he knew nothing of the background and no one in the meeting seemed to, but that now he had also received a letter from the President, and his desire is to follow the President’s wishes. He said he was glad to get the background of the project.
(Comment 🙂
In the meeting referred to by Elder Romney, there were individuals who knew that it was the President’s desire for the project to pass favorably through that Committee. These individuals, all three of whom had heard directly from President McKay, President Brown and Tanner by letter and Mark B. Garff by word of mouth, did not raise their voice to signify President McKay’s desire in the matter.
Elder Petersen summed up the whole thing by saying simply, “There is nothing else to do but to go forward with it. We are beyond the point of no return. It is the President’s desire, the Church is committed to it, and we must go forward.”
President Brown kept interfering with Mark Petersen’s presentation, but he held his own, and the project gained the approval of the Quorum.
President Brown asked Brother Lee if he would like to propose a resolution as coming from the Twelve, to President McKay, signifying approval. His reply was, “I would be reluctant to propose any more resolutions from the Twelve to President McKay, seeing what happened to the other one I proposed.” (This is as near as I can remember it.)
I made one final statement, that the location of the Independence Visitors’ Center was in the heart of perhaps the greatest tourist area in America, that in 1967 approximately thirty million tourists visited the Greater Kansas City Area and the Ozarks.
Brother Lee said, we needn’t listen to any more, that he had a doctor’s appointment and felt the meeting should end.
President Tanner, noting the sting of Elder Lee’s remarks, said to me, “Well, you got your approval, that’s all that counts.” — meaning it was not needful to say any more.
(The Aftermath)
After the joint meeting, which started at 10:00 a. m. and concluded about 2:25 p. m., a nourishing lunch was served.
As I left the meeting room, I stopped by Joseph Anderson’s desk to say that I hoped I had not put him on the spot. He answered that he was glad I had said what I did. He said I told them, meaning the Counselors, that if they did not present the added Counselors’ names as the President instructed him to advise them on, that they would put him on the spot.
President Joseph Fielding Smith seemed pleased at what I had said in the meeting, Elder Petersen also, as I thanked him for his able presentation.
Elder Benson congratulated me on standing for what I did, and he honored me for it. He said others of the brethren may not say so, but he felt that they were proud of the stand I had made.
All seemed quite friendly after the meeting. Presidents Brown and Tanner and Elder Lee said nothing.
Later in the day I discussed the Independence Center with Elder Petersen, congratulating and thanking him for what he did. He said, “You are the one to be congratulated for staying with it all these months. Now we have approval.”
Upon my inquiry, he said he had spoken to Fred Baker and Emil Fetzer to make sure that the project was placed on the Agenda for the meeting of next Tuesday. They informed him that they had been informed that the project had been referred to President Brown and could be released only by him to come before the Expenditure Committee meeting. Whereupon he had called President Brown, who promised he would advise the Building Committee to bring it to the meeting.
The following day I talked to Emil Fetzer about the approval, and asked that he make sure the project was taken to the next Expenditures Meeting. He said he would follow it, but we will check on Monday.”
“(Minutes of Temple Meeting Held in the Salt Lake Temple – April 11, 1968.)
COUNSELORS “IN” OR “TO” THE FIRST PRESIDENCY
At the request of President Brown, President Tanner reported on the action taken by the First Presidency on a resolution passed by the Quorum of the Twelve on March 28, and on the events following. The resolution was pertaining to the appointment of additional counselors in the First Presidency. It stated that the matter of appointing additional counselors in the First Presidency was causing some confusion in the Church inasmuch as the 22nd verse of the 107th Section of the Doctrine and Covenants indicates that “Of the Melchizedek Priesthood, three Presiding High Priests. . . form a quorum of the Presidency of the Church.”
The action of the Council was unanimous in the resolution that the three additional counselors be designated as counselors to the First Presidency, and the sentiment was expressed that President McKay should be informed of the discussion and the action taken by the Council of the Twelve.
President Tanner said this resolution was taken to the First Presidency and discussed, and that the statement of President Joseph F. Smith was also read, in which he said that was the way it should be. Before proceeding with the report, President Tanner referred to a statement he had made in a meeting of the General Authorities on Thursday, March 28, which he said to him is most significant, that is, that the Lord has said, “Unless you are one you are not mine,” and at that time he pleaded for unity.
He said that as far as he was concerned any action taken by the President, even though it might have been contrary to his thinking at the time, would receive his whole-hearted support.
President Tanner said that when Brother Dyer was called as an apostle and invited to attend the First Presidency meetings, he welcomed him and was sincere about it. He said if the President wants anybody in any position, he would support the President, but it is essential that we have unity and that we support one another.
President Tanner said he had discussed this question of unity with Brother Dyer before the present situation arose, and tried to emphasize how important it is that we work together. He said that the resolution was discussed by the First Presidency with President Smith and President Dyer in attendance, and approved by them, as the minutes so stated as clearly as could be stated. The decision was that the First Presidency consisted of the President and his two counselors, and that the other brethren were counselors to the First Presidency.
He said that the day following this meeting word had come that Brother Dyer and President Smith had met with President McKay in a meeting to correct or change this so that these three additional counselors would be sustained as counselors in the First Presidency. He said that without any ill feeling toward Brother Dyer, and certainly not criticizing President McKay, he did think that such action was wrong and should have careful consideration; that if members of the Twelve, the First Presidency, and General Authorities cannot be united, he did not see how the world could be.
President Tanner said it did not make any difference to him whether they were sustained as counselors in the First Presidency or to the First Presidency. He had understood that the reason for recommending that they be sustained as counselors to the First Presidency was so that people would understand that the First Presidency consists of three, and that other members are to work with the First Presidency, attending meetings, receiving assignments, and rendering to the President any personal help he may desire.
President Tanner said that as a result of the meeting of President Smith and Brother Dyer with President McKay, Brother Anderson was told that these brethren should be presented as counselors in the First Presidency. He said that to him this action of these brethren was far more serious and more important than the use of the word “in” or the word “to”, as long as we understand what it means. He said he thought it was most unfair for a brother who was put in this position to carry on with the practice of going to the President alone, or with someone else, and especially when a decision had been made by the Quorum of the Twelve and the First Presidency, and especially in President McKay’s present physical condition and there try to persuade him to do things contrary to what had been decided with the whole Presidency in attendance, and then with the explanation or feeling that “Well, President McKay did not know what we were talking about that day”, or “He did not have a clear understanding of it.”
President Tanner said further that since this came up he had gone into the matter of the composition and responsibilities of the First Presidency. He referred to statements by President Joseph F. Smith, and another statement by President George Q. Cannon, which make abundantly clear Verse 22 of the 107th Section of the Doctrine and Covenants.
He also said that Brother Dyer has referred to the 79th Verse of the 107th Section as an argument that the President could or should be able to appoint as many counselors in the First Presidency as he wishes. He then read Verses 76 to 79 inclusive of the 107th Section, and explained that this referred to dealing with most important business and difficult cases of the Church, inasmuch as there is not satisfaction upon the decision of the bishop or judges, and emphasized that in any event the “Presidency of the council of the High Priesthood shall have power to call other high priests, even twelve, to assist as counselors” in trying these cases.
He stated that he was not arguing for one minute that other counselors could not or should not be appointed and used if the President desires. President Tanner said he did feel, however, the importance of doing things the way they should be done; that if we are going to talk to the President on questions of this kind, then the Presidency should be there, but not one or two of the brethren in an effort to persuade him what to do in a situation of this kind, and especially to get him to rule contrary to a previous decision.
President Tanner said he wished the President were here because he was not questioning the President, but that he was unhappy with the tactics used to try to get him to change his decisions. He said as he understood the situation now, the Presidency is made up of the President and two counselors, whether the additional counselors are counselors to or in the First Presidency.
(At this point statements by President Joseph F. Smith, George Q. Cannon, and Roy W. Doxey were given to Joseph Anderson to be included in the minutes. )
Elder Dyer said there had never been any question in his mind about the position of the Council or the First Presidency of the Church, which consists of a President and two counselors; that when he was called as an apostle to sit in with the First Presidency, the call came from the President of the Church, and not from the First Presidency. He mentioned in this regard that when other counselors have been called, these counselors have in most part been sustained in the First Presidency.
He referred to John C. Bennett, Amasa Lyman and Hugh B. Brown, Joseph Fielding Smith and Thorpe B. Isaacson; also Heber C. Kimball, Brigham Young, Jr., Albert Carrington, John W. Young and George Q. Cannon. He said the only single instance where a counselor other than the Quorum of the First Presidency has been sustained to the First Presidency was President Smith’s father, Joseph F. Smith. He was sustained as a counselor to the First Presidency, but not on the records of the Church.
Referring to the meetings with President McKay, Elder Dyer said that at the close of the meeting of the First Presidency to which reference has been made, President McKay was present when this matter was presented, as were the other brethren of the First Presidency. He, Brother Dyer, did not oppose it because President Smith had agreed, and President McKay had nodded his assent; but that as he said goodbye to the President that morning, President McKay said to him, “Brother Dyer, what was this all about that we talked about this morning?”
Elder Dyer said he told the President that this had to do with the sustaining of the counselors in the Presidency other than President Brown and President Tanner, and he said no more and left. Then, in consultation with President Smith, President Smith said he had been called as a counselor to President McKay and nobody could change this because he had been sustained this way three or four times, and he suggested that Brother Dyer talk to the President about it; and that is the reason he went to see President McKay, and he did so with the idea of explaining to him the difference because he honestly did not believe President McKay understood because of what he said to him when he left the meeting the day before.
Elder Dyer said he took with him two sheets that had been prepared which he presented to him relative to the proposed presentation of the General Authorities, wherein it was indicated that the counselors would be sustained as counselors to the First Presidency; that he went over these sheets carefully with the President, and he took the sheets in his hand and said, “Go over it again,” and he said this three times, and it was he who made the decision that they should be sustained as they had been sustained; that nobody had put that idea in his mind.
He said that while he was there President Brown phoned, and he, Brother Dyer, asked the President if this wouldn’t be a good time to have President Brown and President Tanner come over and discuss the matter, and he said that he would rather that they would not come.
Brother Dyer said the matter of “in” or “to” did not really make any difference to him, although there is an implication in it, and that implication showed itself in the conference, because in the sustaining President Brown did not sustain him, Brother Dyer, in the position of a prophet, seer and revelator, and this was agreed to in the meeting of the First Presidency, as the minutes attest. He said neither was he sustained as a member of the board of the Brigham Young University. He said that when he was called to be an apostle, the question was brought up in a meeting of the First Presidency, and it was agreed that Brother Dyer would be sustained as a prophet, seer and revelator, and this was not done. Brother Dyer said he asked President McKay what his wish in the matter was, and he said, this is the way it is to be done, and that Brother Anderson was called over so that he could prepare the presentation sheets .
Elder Dyer said that Brother Anderson mentioned to the President that inasmuch as the Quorum of the Twelve had issued this resolution, and the First Presidency had approved it, he thought the counselors should be present before final decision was made, but the President said that would not be necessary. Brother Anderson was instructed to change the wording from “to” to “in”, which he did on his copy, and he said that he would notify the brethren, which he later said he had done.
Elder Dyer said that President McKay made the decision; that he did not superimpose it upon his mind because he had decided in the meeting, as President Tanner had said and as President Smith had said, it had been agreed upon, it was a resolution of the Quorum of the Twelve; therefore, he was content to let it stand, until the President himself had indicated that he did not know what it was all about.
Elder Dyer said he thought it was a good thing to bring this out in the open because he had always felt that he was called by President McKay personally to be of some help to him in some way, whatever it was, that he did not ask to be called. He was called by the same authority that called President Brown and President Tanner. He said that when he was called to be an apostle and set apart to that position, President Brown had asked what his status was in these meetings, and he got the understanding that he was sort of an advisor to President McKay, that he did not have the status of a counselor; therefore he had no voice in the Presidency. He said that he said to President Brown at that time that it would seem to him that it would be better if he were listed as a counselor than as an advisor, that as an advisor to the President he would have the prerogative of going to the President as an advisor any time he wanted to talk with him. He said the President has invited him to talk with him and discuss things with him, and that sometimes he had gone there feeling an obligation to do so because the President had said that he wanted to be close to him, to tell him about things, and this is the only reason he has done it. He said he had not assumed it, only as the President had requested it.
Elder Dyer said he understood protocol, and there is nothing he would like better than to follow it, and he wanted to do what the brethren wanted him to do, but he felt that there was an attempt made to keep him out of these callings that rightfully belonged to him, and that if he had to fight for his position, he felt he had a right to do it. He said he didn’t ask for the calling, but inasmuch as he has been called to it, it is his obligation to stand up for it, and to do what the prophet of the Lord wants him to do.
Elder Dyer said that he had seen the President recently. Again he had said to him, “I want you to come to me and to be by my side constantly.” He said that he would like to see a close relationship, and would like to be a help to President Brown and President Tanner. He said he would like to be clarified in his own mind so that this sort of thing is not needful. He said if he is to have a voice, he should have it; and if he is not, he could see no reason for being called at all.
President Tanner then said that he hoped the brethren would believe him when he said that there is nothing personal about this. He did feel the need of honesty and unity and he couldn’t understand Brother Dyer going to President McKay alone, and he thought he should have come to him and President Brown and said, “Let us go over and see the President.”
President Tanner said he did not think that anyone in this room should go to the President and try to influence him against a decision that has been made in this Council and/or by the First Presidency.
Elder Lee commented that he felt that all the brethren had been confronted with the question as to how we can explain the 107th Section, Verse 22, in light of the additional members of the First Presidency. He said the resolution was merely to clarify this, and to put it in a way that the people who are studying the scriptures could understand it.
President Brown commented that when he got up to present the names for the sustaining vote of the conference, the last word he had from the President direct was as the list was read that day, namely, these brethren were to be sustained as counselors to the First Presidency, which was pursuant to the resolution of the Twelve, and the confirming action of the First Presidency.
Elder Petersen mentioned that Henry Smith knew of the difficulty about this matter, that he had asked him how the brethren should be listed in the paper, and he had suggested that he get his instructions from the President, and he understood that President McKay had told him to print it as it had been. President Brown said that it was not proper under the circumstances for him personally to take any instructions from Brother Anderson or from Brother Dyer, or anyone else but the President of the Church.
Elder Petersen said he had been wondering if inasmuch as we have the health problem of the President, and situations like this arise, if it would not be wise to hold our Council meetings in the President’s apartment when all would be present.”
Fri., 12 Apr., 1968:
“The meeting of the First Presidency which had been scheduled for 9 o’clock this morning by Lawrence McKay for the Nauvoo Corporation was cancelled because they did not have all the information they needed to discuss necessary matters with the First Presidency.
President Joseph Fielding Smith and Elder Alvin R. Dyer, not knowing that the Nauvoo Corporation meeting had been cancelled, came over to my office at the appointed hour. I heard the nurse telling them the meeting had been cancelled, and called to her to tell the brethren to come in — that I wanted to see them.
Reorganized Church — Re: Sewage Disposal Plant in Nauvoo
Brother Dyer reported that he had received a letter from Don Benton, attorney for the Reorganized Church, stating that the Nauvoo Corporation had not followed through with instructions to relocate the sewage disposal plant, despite the letter of assurance I had sent to President Wallace Smith that we would cooperate in providing a relocated spot for the sewage plant. It appears that unless this is done immediately, the City plans to go ahead with the plant at the original site which is 1100 feet from the graves of Joseph, Hyrum, and Emma Smith, and about half that distance from the Joseph Smith store site.
Elder Dyer then handed to me a confidential sealed letter addressed to me from President Wallace Smith. I asked Elder Dyer to open it and then I took it and read the letter to President Smith and Elder Dyer. It proved to be a second appeal to help in relocating the sewage plant, and of the advantages to all in removing this objection from this sacred historic spot. (See copies of letters following)
Elder Dyer reminded me of Wallace Smith’s first letter and of my reply; that my commi ment to President Smith had not been carried out because Nauvoo Restoration simply did not want to do it. I said “Who is Nauvoo Restoration?” I then said that this matter should be called to the attention of Elder Stapley.
Note by Alvin R. Dyer:
It was interesting to see how quickly the President was reacting and how determinate were his decisions and thinking on the matter.)
Elder Dyer asked me if I wanted Elder Stapley to come to the office, and I immediately answered “Yes”. Elder Dyer called him on the phone, and mentioned briefly why I wanted to see him. Brother Kimball was with him, and Elder Stapley asked if he could bring Brother Kimball with him. I answered, “Yes, have him come with Brother Stapley.” Elder Dyer told him this, and then Elder Stapley said, “Shouldn’t President Brown and Tanner be there?”, and Elder Dyer turned to me and asked me, and I precisely and immediately said that it was not necessary for them to come.
Elder Stapley and LeRoy Kimball reached the office in a matter of minutes; and I asked Elder Dyer to explain why they had been called over.
Elder Dyer told of the letters received the day before, and the seriousness of the situation, all because Nauvoo Restoration had not wanted to actually make available a relocation site. LeRoy Kimball said, “We have stood willing and are now willing to discuss the matter with the City if they will but ask.”
Elder Dyer said, ”Yes, I know this has been the attitude of Nauvoo Restoration, but actually you have done nothing in a positive way by saying ‘Yes, we shall provide a site’, but have said, ‘If you want a relocated site, let us know and we shall discuss the matter with you’–all of this was something of an evasion.”
It was explained that the R. L. D. S. in good faith had spent fifteen thousand dollars attempting to help find a site, but always that which they found was unsuitable or the R. L. D. S. were going about it in the wrong way.
Elder Dyer further stated that the time had come for Nauvoo Restoration to take some positive action on the matter, and give the City officials assurance of a relocated site.
I then read the letter I received this morning from President Wallace Smith, which also stated in addition to that already mentioned, that the R. L. D. S. would bear all expense connected with a relocated site. After reading the letter, I said it seemed to me a simple matter, and asked why had it not been done. I then said to Elder Stapley, “I hold you responsible to see that this is taken care of”, and I indicated that Elder Dyer is to Assist in the matter.
Nauvoo Restoration Inc. Assurance to the Nauvoo Officials to Form Basis of My Answer to Wallace Smith of the R. L. D. S. Church
LeRoy Kimball said he knew what the trouble was, and as agreed to by Elder Stapley, said the letter would be sent right away. I asked for a copy so that it could be attached to my letter of answer.
Note by Alvin R. Dyer: We shook hands with the President, and left him keenly alert and smiling. It was pleasing to see his alertness and sharp thinking.
I walked to the Office Building with Elder Stapley. We discussed the matter further. Then I said, “You see, Del, how this whole thing happened this morning. President Smith and I went there to attend a meeting, which unbeknown to us had been cancelled; but upon greeting the President, he asked us to stay as he read the personal letter from W. Wallace Smith, and from that developed the further happenings of the morning.” I further stated, “When President Brown and President Tanner hear of it they will accuse President Smith and me of going to see President McKay alone.””
“Cancellation of Sealings – Setting Apart of Elder Alvin R. Dyer
Clare remained after the departure of the group, and presented about ten cases of petitions for cancellation of Temple sealings, and one or two letters. She also handed me a copy of a setting apart and blessing which I had used for one of the other counselors when they came into the First Presidency. I stated that Elder Dyer will be set apart as a Counselor IN the First Presidency, and that the sustaining of the counselors at the April Conference will have to be rectified.”
Tues., 16 Apr., 1968:
Just before leaving, Elder Dyer mentioned to me that he had not as yet been set apart as a Counselor in the First Presidency. I said that this should be done and told him to come back at 3 o’clock for this purpose.
11:00 a. m.
My son Lawrence brought in to see me Mr. and Mrs. Barborakos. (No notes were made on this visit.)
3:00 p.m.
Elder Alvin R. Dyer set Apart as Counselor In the First Presidency
According to appointment, Elder Alvin R. Dyer called at the office in the Hotel Utah apartment. He was accompanied by Brother Joseph Anderson, secretary to the First Presidency. Just after their arrival my secretary Clare Middlemiss arrived and gave to me a sheet of paper which contained the wording of the setting apart and blessing I had asked her to prepare from a previous setting apart of the Counselors in the First Presidency. Sister Middlemiss said to me as she handed me the sheet, “This is the corrected statement you went over yesterday. ” With that explanation she left the office.
I took some time going over the wording of the blessing, and suggested further changes.
I then asked Brother Dyer to read the wording of the setting apart and after he had finished reading it, I asked Joseph Anderson to read it aloud to me. I then said it was all right, and that the more I read it, the better I liked it.
I then said to Brother Dyer, “Are you sure that you have not previously received the blessing of being a ‘watchman’ over the Consecrated land of Missouri, because I think you should have that blessing.” Elder Dyer answered by saying, “You assigned me this work, but I have never received the blessing to perform this labor.” I said, “Then, you should receive the blessing to do it.”
I then placed my hands upon Elder Dyer’s head and set him apart as follows:
“Brother Alvin R. Dyer, I lay my hands upon your head and set you apart as a Counselor in the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
“I confer upon you the right to be a watchman over the Consecrated lands of Missouri, and that your influence in missionary work will continue.
“I bless you with health in your body, and that your mind will be quickened to adjust to the calling now placed upon you; and that you may fulfill the duties of this call to your own satisfaction, and that of your associates, and to the glory of God for the building up of His Kingdom here on earth. I do this by virtue of the Holy Priesthood, and in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”
After I set him apart, and while he was still sitting on the leather ottoman before me, I grasped Elder Dyer’s hand and said that I am happy that he is now in the First Presidency, and that I have had a high regard for him for a long time.
President Dyer expressed his gratitude for my feelings and confidence in him, and said that he would do his best. He told me of the many times in life that I had pointed the way for him, mentioning the phone calls and letters, and also personal visits we had had together. He referred to my telephone call to him when he was European Mission President and was in Norway. The call came at 2 o’clock in the morning at the time of his visit to Warsaw, Poland to lay the groundwork for the microfilming of the Polish records for genealogical purposes, which work is now going on; and that my call was in answer to his prayers for he needed my reassurance at that time.
There was a spiritual atmosphere present and tears filled both our eyes as we clasped hands in friendship and brotherhood.
Independence — Approval Finally Given for Construction of Visitors Center
President Dyer reported that at the Expenditures Committee meeting held today, the Independence Visitors Center was given budgetary approval — to cost an estimated $555, 000 including furnishings, landscaping, architectural fees, etc., but not display and visual media.
Brother Dyer said that the action was a great relief to him as it has been a long up-hill battle, and that only my desires in support of the efforts he had made, and of late those of Elder Mark E. Petersen, made the project possible, and that it should now go forward without interruption.
President Dyer said that for some unknown reasons to him which he could not fully understand, that in the meeting held today, President Hugh B. Brown said he was “opposed to the center, but since the President wanted it, there was nothing else to do but to budget it.”
So concluded a very busy day, with many problems and decisions to make!”