Peter Whitmer Farm, Kirtland, Ohio

First thing this morning, we visited the Peter Whitmer Farm, where the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was officially organized. There is a very nice Stake Center there located on the property and just to the North is the Whitmer log cabin. The log cabin is not the original, but rather is period cabin relocated from a place 8 miles away. Someone contacted the church and asked if they wanted it; terms were agreed upon and it was taken apart and removed and reassembled on the current spot. Apparently there are several sites on the farm property where old foundations have been located, so the exact location is unknown. During our drive down we stopped by Lake Erie mostly likely the Sea South.

After visiting the farm we drove most of the rest of the day to Kirtland, Ohio. In the Kirtland area tremendous events took place that make Kirtland a significant place in Church history. We had a very special visit to the Kirtland Temple; we were guided through the tour by a young lady who had recently graduated from BYU Idaho. She was there as an intern. The Kirtland Temple was the site of the restoration of priesthood keys through Moses, Elias and Elijah. Jesus Christ also appeared and accepted the Temple and the many great sacrifices of all who labored so diligently in its construction. Most of the Saints if not destitute, were very poor, so it was built under great sacrifice. While in the Temple we sang The Spirit of God, just as the Saints did during the dedication.

We next went to the Newel K. Whitney store. In this store, in an upper room, Joseph Smith made his office (called the revelation room). It was known as such for he received sections 84 through 98 and 101 there. Also in the upper floor of the store is the room where the School of the Prophets was held. The school was held to help instruct leading brethren in the ways, principles, doctrines of the newly organized church. They were also instructed or schooled in Hebrew and in their own English language and other subjects as education is important to the Lord.The brethren had choice experiences while attending this school.

We also stopped briefly at the Issac Morely Farm. It is occupied by missionaries so is not something that is toured.

The Peter Whitmer Farm

David Whitmer and his mother were both eye witnesses to the Gold Plates

This inscription is written on Granite and mounted on the front of the Stake Center

Lake Erie

The Newel K. Whitney Store and surrounding area