1804 Vinson Knight

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1603 Richard Knight, 1656 David Knight, 1693 David E. Knight, 1721 David Knight, 1742 Samuel Knight, 1768 Rodolphus Knight, 1804 Vinson Knight, 1833 James Vincent Knight, 1887 Samuel Lee Knight, 1917 Milton Knight





freepages.rootsweb.com/~knight57/genealogy/direct/knight/aqwg13.htm#118

Bishop Vinson KNIGHT [Parents]-390 was born on 14 Mar 1804 in Chester, Washington, New York. He died on 31 Jul 1842 in Nauvoo, Hancock, Illinois. He was buried on 1 Aug 1842 in Nauvoo, Hancock, Illinois. Vinson married Martha MCBRIDE-395 on 6 Jul 1826 in Perrysburg, Cattaraugus, New York.

BIOGRAPHY: Vinson was a Bishop in Mormon Church at Nauvoo,,Illinois.

Nauvoo, Illinois Tax Index, 1842
Surname Given Name Page Coord.
KNIGHT VINSON 232 6N8W

In Joseph Smith-The Prophet-His Family and Friends- there is this about Vinson Knight "G.B. Frost Boston Sept 19, 1842-About the last of August, 1837, Joseph Smith, Brigham Young and others were drunk at Joseph Smith the prophet's house, all together Bishop Vinson Knight supplied them rum, brandy, gin and port wine from the (Morman) cash store. Joseph told Knight in my hearing not to sell any of those liquors, for he wanted them for his own use. They were drunk and drinking for a whole week."(I have the feeling this was reported by somebody not friendly to the church)

Highlights in the Life of Moses Gifford-LaReah H. Toronto-(Second Great Niece)- 22 Apr 1839 - Joseph Smith arrived at Quincy it was agreed he along with Bishop Vinson Knight and Alanson Ripley, go to Iowa to select a place for the gathering of the exiled saints. They were also advised to go to Commerce and look over the neighborhood.

Mormon Biographical Registers
KNIGHT,Vinson. Son of Rudolphus Knight and Rizpah Lee. Born 14 March 1804 in Chester,Washington County,New York. Married Martha McBride (born 1805 in New York). Six known children. Residing in Perrysburg, New York, at time of conversion 1834. Moved to Kirtland by 1835. Owned home and property in Kirtland. Druggist. Ordained elder 2 January 1836. Charter member of and owned stock in Kirtland Safety Society January 1837.

Participated in dedication of Kirtland Temple. Traveled to Far West, Missouri, with Joseph Smith September-December 1837. Moved to Missouri 1839. Located temporarily in Quincy, Illinois, 1839. As church land agent, assisted in purchasing thousands of acres of land in Lee County, Iowa, May-June 1839. Appointed to assume full title of bishop 4 May 1839. Appointed bishop of Lower Ward in Nauvoo 6 October 1839. Designated by revelation 19 January 1841 as Presiding Bishop of Church. Elected to Nauvoo City Council 1 February 1841. Initiated into Masonary 9 April 1842. Took plural wife before death. Possibly received endowment before death.

Died in Nauvoo,Hancock County,Illinois,3 July 1842.(Cook)

Pioneer Ancestors, Salt Lake City Chapter SUP
Martha McBride Knight Born 17 March 1805 at Chester, Washington County, New York. Entered Salt Lake Valley 17 September 1850

Nauvoo, Illinois Tax Index, 1842
KNIGHT VINSON 232 6N8W

Vinson Knight: Bishop
Title: Manuscripts to 1846; A guide to the Holdings of the Harold B. Lee Library
Author: Andrus Hyrum
Reference: LDS Member Name INdex 1830 - 1845

In the same revelation, the Lord says," I give unto you, Vinson Knight, Samuel H. Smith and Shadrach Roundy, if he will receive it, to preside over the Bishopric."
And again, I say unto you I give you, Vinson Knight, Samuel H. Smith and Shadrach Roundy, if he will receive it, to preside over the Bishopric; a knowledge of said bishopric is given unto you in the Book of Doctrine and Covenents.
Reference: Pioneers and Prominent Men of Utah, Church Chronology and History; Z; Privates

Levi Byram and Martha Jane Belnap
Gold Medal Pioneers
By Donald Levi Gale Hammon
1996 - Page 17

Excerpt from the Life Story of Martha McBride Knight Smith Kimbal
Written by Brent J. Belnap. Submitted on behalf of the Belnap Family Organization to the Daughters of Utah Pioneers in 1995.)

In September 1837, Martha's husband left for Missouri with Joseph Smith, being gone for 2 months. Deep apostasy and persecution took hold in Kirtland during that period.
The Knight family moved with other faithful Latter-day Saints in the spring of 1838 to Missouri, arriving at the end of May 1838 at Far West, Caldwell, Missouri. They settled in Adam-ondi-Ahman in Daviess County where Vinson was appointed Bishop on 28 June 1838. Very quickly persecution again descended upon the Knight family and others. Within a very brief period, Martha and her family, suffering greatly, were driven from their home by a mob. Her husband later executed an affidavit in October 1839 itemizing a bill of damages against the State of Missouri for $10,000 in compensation for property lost and expenses incurred during the expulsion--one of the largest claims made by a Latter-day Saint family for damages suffered in Missouri.[/quote]

Sketch of the Life of Vinson Knight by Lola Belnap Coolbear
familysearch.org/photos/stories/3363704
10 November 2013

SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF VINSON KNIGHT By Lola Belnap Coolbear (This little sketch has been written that the true-life story of our forefathers may live in the memories of our children; that the coming generations may know how we came to be connected with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Most of the dates have been gleaned from the Church histories, but the stories were told by Martha McBride Knight and later by her son, James Knight and her daughter Adaline Knight Belnap.)

Vinson Knight was a man to be admired, well built with strong muscles and broad shoulders, keen dark eyes and rather dark hair. He was an honest law-abiding citizen, and a bright businessman. His disposition was probably the most to be admired; having rather set determined ways, yet kind and considerate to his friends, tender and affectionate to his wife and children.

He was the son of Rudolphus Knight and Rizpah Lee, and was born in Norwich, Hampshire County, Massachusetts, March 14, 1804. He married Martha McBride, the youngest daughter of Daniel McBride and Abigail Mead, July 6, 1826. Vinson had two older brothers, Rudolphus and Samuel Lee. The three had inherited some property from their deceased father. Vinson’s portion being a little clearing amid the timbers of New York, in the town of Perrysburgh where his thrifty nature had a splendid chance to develop.

In only eight years time Vinson’s clearing grew to a beautiful farm. There was a large frame house in the place of the log cabin. There were fields of wheat, potatoes and corn, patches of hemp and flax. Maple trees were tapped for sugar and syrup, and a fruit orchard planted. He had stock, horsed and sheep and a large flock of geese. He raised, killed and cured their meat, and made the soap for the household use.

The housekeeper complained of a large sack of money that was always in the way on the bottom shelf of the cupboard. Vinson worked his farm with all the energy of brain and muscle, for coursing through his veins was the proud blood of the Knight family. The wants of his wife and children must be well supplied, for he had married one of the most beautiful daughters of Massachusetts, and her little hands must never be hardened with heavy work.

Martha was a dainty little woman with fine, delicate features, gray-blue eyes and dark hair. Her sensitive nature was the soul of honor and although her hands were never allowed to do hard work; yet they were never idle. There being no sewing machines, she ran the spinning wheel and plied her needle on the woolen goods and yards and yards of linen made from the wool and flax that grew on their own farm. Her handwork was a wonder of neatness, her seams being so small that one could scarcely tell the right side from the wrong, and her stitches could hardly be found.

Her mind was submissive to deep religious thought, for her father, Daniel McBride had been a Campbellite minister, and that religion appealed to all the family as being nearest the plan of salvation as taught by Jesus. But sometimes her father, when returning from church would say to his family, “There is something lacking. I feel that I have not the authority as the Prophets of old. If only I could say to the people, ‘Thus sayeth the Lord’.” Although he did not live to receive that divine authority himself, he had called the attention of his family to the lack of it, and prepared their hearts to receive the restoration of that order when it was revealed to Joseph Smith.

Abigail Mead McBride (mother of Vinson’s wife) was a widow when the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was organized in 1830. But she and others of the family very soon became members. At this time of the great religious revival, when all people were taking interest in some religion, Vinson’s people were revised Christians, with lofty ideas of their own; and when it was reported that a boy, named Joseph Smith had found a golden book, and saw and angel, and was trying to establish a church, they were inclined to smile and believed him to be a dreamer or an imposter. But religion had not yet disturbed the peace of this quiet family.

Vinson and Martha were contented with their beautiful home and family of four children, Almira, Rizpah, Adaline, and James. Vinson’s mother also made her home with them.

So it happened that March 21, 1834, became an eventful evening for them all. Vinson was resting from his day’s labor on a buffalo robe in the corner of the dining room when two gentlemen came to the door and made themselves known as Joseph Smith and Parley P. Pratt.

Martha had heard of them through her folks and bade them welcome. Vinson’s mother had also heard of them, and she hurriedly put on her bonnet, and went to the neighbors, a widow. She told her story hastily and asked to stay all night for she said, “I never could sleep under the same roof with those Mormons.” The widow listened with sympathy and remarked that it was a good thing that it happened tonight for she said, “My son is away and you may have his room.” Mother Knight felt so thankful when she retired for the night that she at least, was wise enough not to stay and listen to the stories of deceitful men and praying for her dear son and daughter-in-law, that they might not be deceived. She soon fell asleep. Now the widow’s son knew that his mother was not expecting him home, and thinking not to disturb her, he unlocked the door with his own key and without making a light, tiptoed to his own room, slipped off his trousers and quickly turned down the blanket. The widow was awakened by a scream. She started for the scene, but was almost run over by the retreating form of the bashful young man. This story was told by the widow—Mother Knight’s pride would never have allowed her to tell it. Vinson inherited the same proud spirit of his mother and he, like her, felt very indifferent toward the visitors. He knew that Joseph Smith had been the talk and the laughing stock of the people and newspapers for years, but being a generous man, he could not refuse them entertainment. They were friends of his wife’s folks, and she felt annoyed to see her husband too indifferent to arise from the buffalo robe. The conversation during the evening somewhat changed the opinion of Vinson and his wife, and caused them to look into the truth of Joseph Smith’s character and investigate his religion, and even attend some of the meetings. They soon found that Joseph Smith had been misrepresented and they became convinced that he was no false prophet, but an instrument in the hands of the Lord to restore the true gospel of Christ, that had been taken from the earth, Many people in New York and Massachusetts accepted the restored gospel, but Vinson’s folks were among those who saw and heard no significance in the teachings of Joseph Smith. Therefore, it must have been a trial to them all to see Vinson led off, as it were. It must have grieved the tender feelings of his dear mother, who could not connect the doctrines of Joseph Smith with the teachings of Christ.

But the whisperings of the gospel’s spirit found an echo in Vinson’s heart, and he, with his wife were baptized in the spring of 1834. New thoughts and a new life seemed to have come to them with glad tidings of great joy for the living and the dead, changing their lives and giving them new desires.

If the new members of the new church were going to Ohio, building the City of Kirtland and a temple then New York could no longer hold them, for Vinson always did everything with the same energy that he worked his farm. Oh, his farm, what could he do with it? How could he leave the place where they had spent so many happy years, and which was making him rich? Dispose of it? Of course, at any price. What was this place to them now? They were seeking a new home, not a home of worldly wealth and comfort, but a home eternal.

Chapter II

It was about 135 miles down to Kirtland, but they traveled by stagecoach, and canal boat, so it took five or six days. Maria Crandle, a niece of Martha Knight and Lydia Goldwait, who afterwards became the wife of Newel Knight (no relation of Vinson’s) came with them and lived with them for some time. It was the early part of June 1835, which was a beautiful time of the year to make the trip. The people were working hard and the town bid fare to become a beautiful city.

The Saints had tried to settle in Jackson County, Missouri, but had been terribly persecuted, and finally driven from their homes.

Brother Joseph had organized a company called Zion’s Camp, who went down to Missouri and tried to make peace with the county and get the people back in their homes, but did not accomplish their purpose. The twelve apostles had been chosen members of Zion’s Camp and some of them were now away on their first missions, The Knight family found peace and quietude in Kirtland and continued so for two years, probably the most peaceful days in early Church History. They soon received their Patriarchal Blessings from Father Smith.

Chapter III

It was Joseph Smith, Sen. Who selected the name of Nathaniel for their next baby, and blessed him. Nathaniel was born Dec. 31, 1835 and died Oct. 31, 1836. By coming to Kirtland, Vinson Knight had the pleasure of studying Hebrew in the school of the Prophets. He was voted to be ordained an elder in a council meeting January 2, 1836 and right away his busy life in the Church began. On the 13th of the same January he was appointed councilor to Newell K. Whitney (the bishop of Kirtland). A part of the minutes of the council read as follows: “Wed. Jan. 13, 1836: A council meeting was held and among those present besides the Prophet was the president of Kirtland and Zion’s Stakes, namely: Joseph Smith Sr., Sidney Rigdon, Hyrum Smith, David Whitmer, John Whitmer, and W. W. Phelps: also the Twelve Apostles, the high council of Zion and Kirtland, and the presidency of the Seventies and more of the elders. The council came to order by singing “Adam-ondi-Ahman” and opened by prayer offered up by Joseph Smith Sr.

The Prophet made some remarks and spoke of the business of the day, which was to supply some deficiencies in the Bishopric and in the high council. Elder Vinson Knight was nominated as a councilor in the Bishopric of Kirtland; the nomination was made by the bishop and seconded by the presidency. Elder Knight was then ordained under the hands of Bishop Newel K. Whitney, to fill the place of Hyrum Smith, who had been ordained to the presidency of the High Council of Kirtland. Council adjourned by singing “Come, Let Us Rejoice.” The Prophet, in recording his thought of the meeting, wrote ; “This has been one of the best days I ever spent; there had been an entire union of feeling expressed in all our proceedings this day and the Spirit of the God of Israel has rested upon us in mighty power.”

This whole year had been a time of rejoicing for Joseph, the Prophet and his people. Vinson Knight enjoyed the spirit and worked with the rest, for he was a doer of everything that was asked him and he felt it a pleasure to labor with those noble men. He had the pleasure of being present at so many of those glorious meetings held during the year of 1836. The people were overjoyed at the completion of their temple. And the dedication would always be remembered by the saints, the speaking and the prayer and the songs, so full of the grace and glory of God. That assembly unanimously sustained Joseph Smith Jr. as their Prophet, Seer and Revelator. They also sustained the Twelve and all the other leaders in the different organizations.

The Prophet was so delighted with the unity of Spirit that prevailed, and in speaking to the people that day his very soul was full of blessings for them all. In unity there is strength, and he blessed them in the name of Christ and told them; “So long as they held together in unity that all of the blessings of heaven were theirs, but if not, the judgements of God will follow close upon you until that City, or that House, which rejects us shall be left desolate.” How dearly did the Prophet love his brethren and sisters, especially the Twelve Apostles? What pleasure did he take in the new temple, with his brethren, anointing and blessing them and prophesying their future and they in turn anointing, blessing and even prophesying to others?

Vinson Knight received anointing and blessings at that time and had the power given him to officiate in the ordinance from day to day. Years afterwards, one Brother Taylor of the Mormon Battalion, told Vinson’s daughter that her father was a true prophet, for he had given him his anointings and blessings in the Kirtland Temple and prophesied things to him that he had seen fulfilled all during his life, especially during his trials in the Battalion.

If only that beautiful spirit of unity could have remained, if only the people as a whole would listen to the advice of their leader; but, no, that dark year of 1837 must follow, and was even casting shadows before it. There were a good many causes for the dissatisfaction that was now creeping into the hearts of the people.

It would take volumes to tell all that happened, but suffice it to say that one of the main causes was the failure of their bank. Although, at this time there were banks failing all over the United States, yet some of the Prophet’s dearest friends, as well as those more distant, blamed him for the failure of this one. He had little to think of it, though, for in spite of everything, Zion was growing. More people were coming into the Church daily.

The apostles who were in England and other places were wending emigrants to Kirtland and Joseph must prepare for them. So it was agreed in General Conference that more land should be bought. Bishop Whitney and his counselors issued a proclamation to the Saints, entreating them to assist all that they could in this undertaking. The Prophet, leaving Apostle Brigham Young to take care of affairs in Kirtland, went to Far West, Sept 27 accompanied by Brothers Williams and Knight. It was a long trip, taking more than a month. They held conference and looked at all the country around and decided there was a gathering place for the Saints. They returned to Kirtland about Dec. 10. In Kirtland the whole church was in commotion. Many had apostatized. Apostates had united with non-Mormons and undertook to overthrow the Church and denounce Joseph Smith as a fallen Prophet.

Brigham Young was true to Joseph, and declared by all the powers of the Holy Ghost that Joseph Smith was still the same true prophet, but he lost control of affairs and was forced to go away and leave them.

Some few had placed themselves at the head of a new church declaring themselves to be in the right, that they owned the whole Church, and even the temple. During one of the meetings when Joseph was trying to preside, one of this class of men, who was standing in the back of the room, became excited and declared he would put Joe Smith out of the temple. The aisles being full of standing people, he stepped upon the back of a bench and started for the stand, stepping from the back of one bench to another between the heads of the people. Brother Joseph was equal to the occasion and remained calm. Turning to Brother Knight he said, “Brother Vinson, take this man out.”

Quick as a thought, Vinson caught the man by the legs and tossed him head downward over his shoulders, and carried him struggling and bawling out of the building. Brother Knight’s little children always remember the occasion.

Vinson was only one of the many true friends and faithful saints that loved and believed in Brother Joseph. But there were enough untrue men to form a mob and disturb and threaten and become more vicious until the Prophet and Sidney Rigdon were forced to take to the saddle and flee for their lives in the cold, bleak January of 1838.

The departure of Brother Joseph from Kirtland caused unrest among the Saints. Their homes and the temple were in Kirtland, but contentment had left. Their leader had been driven from them and the house nor the city that would not shelter him could not hold them. They were ready to share the fate of the Prophet.

Brother Joseph sent word to the Saints that there was room for them in Missouri, and most of them were soon moving to Far West and other places near there. It was a long way and took them nearly two months traveling as they did by horse and team with four or five families to a company. The Prophet had said that Zion shall be built upon this continent, the center of which would be in Missouri; and the people well knew that Zion meant a home of beauty and order, where righteous people would live in peace and union.

The Knight family arrived with others at Far West, Missouri some time in June and were sent directly to a new location, twenty-five miles north. June 28, 1838 Brother Knight was appointed Bishop, to preside over Adam-Ondi-Ahman. They bought a farm from Adam Black, a justice of the peace, and gave part payment for the same.

All the family was delighted with their new home, and the children played at will along the shady banks of the river there. During the summer all kinds of fruits and nuts grew in abundance.

Homes were made and in a few weeks even towns were built. The people were happy, indeed, for they felt that Missouri was their home, perhaps their Zion. The new town of Adam-Ondi-Ahman was particularly interesting to them for here it was that Adam dwelt (said the prophet) and was led and talked with God. Here it was that his descendants had built altars and offered sacrifices. To the joy of the Saints, there was one of these altars still standing on the bluff above the river as an emblem of the hallowed spot.

Although some of the old settlers had sold them their land, they were determined that the Saints should not live among them with no other excuse than they had an unpopular religion. In July of that summer the Missourians refused the Saints the right of voting and the trouble started. The Saints tried to make peace. Joseph Smith led out and offered himself in court to answer false charges, hoping to save further trouble.

He tried to reason with some men in authority and get them to agree to at least wait until the Saints had committed an offense before they were punished. It was of no use. The government authorities were as determined as were the old settlers to have things go wrong.

More than that, some of these men in authority were rogues in the extreme, and took pleasure in pointing out to the old settlers what wealth they would gain in the coming land sales. Should the Mormons be driven out, they could get possession of their homes without paying for them. T

hey formed mobs against the Saint driving off their horses, sheep, cattle, hogs, etc and even burned houses and took prisoners.

They surprised the town of Haun’s Mill and massacred nearly all of them.

The Saints living in small towns began to flee to the larger towns for protection.

With Governor Boggs’ extermination order, Bishop Vinson Knight had no time to lose. Just ten days and not half enough teams left to move the people in his ward. They got word that they could remain in Far West until spring and a few men could go to and fro for four weeks to gather the remains of their crops. Bishop Knight was forced to work in disguise for everyone who appeared to be a leader was taken by the mob. It had been hard for Vinson’s wife to see their crops destroyed and their cows driven off to feed the hungry mob, while their own family went hungry. And now to be forced to leave a comfortable home with her little children right at the beginning of winter and live she knew not where---but her faith in God’s care never faltered. Gathering clothing and bedding, she was ready to go.

Her husband was on the road helping others but he sent one Brother Fisk after them. The children ever remember the mud and the rain, and the ride of 25 miles under a quilt. Adaline was the first to recognize her father in disguise. It was October and the miserable storms of a long dreary winter had set in earlier than usual.

The Saints were crowding into Far West from every direction without sufficient clothing for winter and there was not enough food in Far West to feed the multitude. Some of them were already sick and dying from exposure. The news of the Haun’s Mill Massacre added terror to the occasion.

The Prophet’s kind words and good advice, while he exerted every effort to relieve their suffering seemed to be their only comfort. Although they had permission to stay in Far West until spring, the Saints were ready to leave in the midst of winter. The Lord softened the hearts of the people in Quincy, Illinois, and many other places where the people found shelter until spring. The Knight family found refuge with some friends in Pike County, Missouri, where a baby was born to them and they named him Rudolphus Elderkin.

Heaven blessed those unconquered heroes who had courage to cling to their religion with so many disappointments.

Chapter IV

The spring of 1839 found the Saints gathering together again, still hopeful though weakened in health. In spite of the persecutions, their numbers were rapidly growing and a site for a city must be found for the exiled Saints. Brother Joseph, who had been in prison in Missouri on false charge, was now with them again.

He heard of a chance to get land in Illinois and he with Alason Ripley and Vinson Knight were chosen as a committee to go to Illinois and select the new town site. They decided on Commerce, Hancock County, and bought 135 acres from Hugh White for which they agreed to pay $6000, also a large tract lying west of the White purchase of Dr. Isaac Galland for $9000. Before leaving Quincy, they held a conference (May 4th) in the Presbyterian campgrounds near Quincy.

Brother Knight had been bishop, protem, since his appointment in Adam-ondi-ahman until this conference when he was appointed bishop in reality.

After that the purchase of many acres of land for the Church was entrusted to him and he helped to lay out several townsites. The Saints soon moved to the new location, but the country was swampy and the air full of malaria. In their weakened state they were ready victims for disease. There was sickness in every camp; thus the faith of the people was tested in another extreme. Although the hot summer months passed by, they worked hard and prayed. They were blessed and healed.

They drained the lands, which improved the climate and were ready in the fall for another spiritual feast at another conference time.

Bishops were appointed for three wards—Newel K. Whitney for the middles ward, Edward Partridge for the upper ward, and Vinson Knight was appointed bishop of the lower ward.

The Saints were now growing so rapidly and working so industriously that in only two or three years the world began to hear of a remarkable city called Nauvoo

Brother Knight, like other willing workers, was engaged in all kinds of business affairs for the Church and city. He was elected a member of the first council in February 1841. He was a member of many committees and instructor of other committees. If Brother Joseph was away, it was Vinson who would look after the wants of his family. He was always ready to look after the widows and orphans.

Brother Knight, with other bishops, organized the lesser Priesthood on March 21, 1841. On Monday, June 7, 1841, he with many others accompanied Brother Joseph to Missouri for a trial on a false charge.

Vinson Knight was introduced into the Lodge of Masons by Joseph Smith himself on April 13, 1842.

He was a member of the Nauvoo Agriculture and Manufacturing Association.

He was one of the Prophet’s lifeguards in the Nauvoo Legion.

Thus Vinson’s time and talent were spent for the church, for the family, and his country.

Once, while walking with his brethren on the street, Joseph Smith was overcome with the spirit of revelation. His brother Hyrum and Vinson Knight carried him quietly through the schoolroom to his office above. Vinson prayed in his heart that the Lord would give him some direction through the Prophet.

When the revelation was recorded, Section 124, there were indeed words direct to Vinson Knight. Shortly after this revelation was given, their sons, Nathaniel and Rudolphus, became ill and died.

In the spring of 1842, Vinson decided to build a new home of brick. Before the house was completed, he became ill with typhoid fever and died on July 30, 1842, leaving his wife with four children, the oldest about 16.

The Prophet Joseph Smith spoke at his funeral and in his talk he said, “There lies a man that has done more for me than my own brother would do!” The house was finally completed and the lower part rented, while the family moved upstairs. The oldest girl, Almira, went to different homes doing sewing. Finally, she went to the home of Mr. Stoddard who was a widower and an apostate. Her mother and sisters grieved when she came home on evening to bid them goodbye as she was moving to Akron, Ohio.

Their means of living were nearly exhausted. The youngest son was too small to be of much help. When the Relief Society was organized in 1842, Martha Knight was one among the first members. Adaline Knight was there at the first meeting with her mother. She was 11 years old. They witnessed and suffered with the rest of the people the murder of their Prophet and Patriarch.

In December 1845 Adaline married Gilbert Belnap and Rizpah married Andrew Gibbons, leaving Martha with one son, James. When the people were forced to leave Nauvoo, Gilbert took charge of Martha Knight’s property and sold what he could and bought a wagon and oxen. They loaded what they could in the wagon and left the rest in the house. In February 1846 they crossed the Mississippi on solid ice and started west. James drove the team. They camped at Winter Quarters. Martha was very sick and came very near death. They were afflicted with scurvy as they traveled because they had no vegetables. In the spring they decided to go into Missouri for a while where Gilbert worked as a wheelwright making wagons. They stayed here until spring of 1850 when they started west in Captain Well’s company. Martha endured the trials and hardships of that long weary march. Nearing the mountains one of Gilbert’s oxen died. They hitched the cow in. Finally the cow died. Then his wagon was sold for a trifle and Adaline and Gilbert moved their things to Martha’s wagon and came on to Salt Lake. They stayed there a short time, then moved Ogden. They were among the first people there.

[/quote][/div]
Vinson Knight
familysearch.org/photos/stories/830036
Contributed By Beverly Jamison · 30 April 2013

In 1836, the year after Vinson Knight joined the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and moved to Kirtland, Ohio, Joseph Smith also moved his family to Kirtland. There, Joseph was also baptized. Although the Mormons had built a temple in Kirtland, economic difficulties drove them from Ohio. At about the same time severe religious persecution, mob violence, and official sanctions against Mormons who were living in Missouri, resulted in burnings, whippings, and deaths in that state. Even the Missouri Governor, Liburn, Boggs, declared open season on Mormons by issuing his infamous, "extermination order" threatening death if they didn't abandon their homes and farms and stores and leave the state. By that time, Vinson Knight was serving as"Bishop Pro Tem" of Adam-Ondi-Ahman in Missouri.

In the dead of winter with his wife, Martha, big with child, he and his family had to flee for their lives. Martha Knight bore her child February 9, 1829, in the miserable cold of Pike County, Missouri, Homeless and hounded by their persecutors. By 1840, as the Latter-Day Saints began moving in Hancock County, Illinois (the area selected by a committee consisting of Joseph Smith, Vinson Knight and Alanson Ripley. Both Vinson Knight and Joshua Smith played significant leadership roles in the development of the new city of Nauvoo, built by the Mormons on the banks of the Mississippi River. but two years later, a sudden illness took the life of Bishop Knight, in July 1843, leaving his widow, Martha, alone with a young family. Joseph Smith himself wrote a eulogy to Vinson Knight. His words as written in the Documentary History of the Church: Sunday July 31, concerning Bishop Vinson Knight's sickness. Bishop Knight has been sick about a week and this morning he began to sink very fast until twelve o'clock when death put a period to his sufferings. History of the Church, vol 5, pg. 84

At this meeting it was unanimously agreed that should be" a Stake and a place of gathering for the Saints" and Bishop Partridge was appointed to preside as Bishop of the Upper Ward, while Bishop Newel K. Whitney and Bishop Vinson Knight were assigned in like capacity to the Middle and Lower Wards, respectively.
Reference: Latter-Day Saints Biographical Encyclopedia; Volume 1; Biographies: Whitney, Newell Kimball[/quote]


Vinson Knight, 1804-1842 Letter (3 Feb. 1839)
Typescript, HBLL

Vinson Knight to William Cooper, February 3, 1839,
February 3, 1839

Dear Sir [William Cooper]:

I received yours of the 8th and am glad to hear that you are well and doing well. I have my family with me at this time and shall move into the state of Illinois as soon as I can. We are well and in very good spirits. I will attempt to answer your request by writing you some facts I received in the county of Caldwell the last days of May [1838] last about which time there were some men in the Church that were disposed to do things that were not right from which we have been injured.

I then went into Daviess County and prepared for to settle, there being about 120 families of Mormons in that county and about 140 of the old inhabitants. I soon heard that elections [at Gallatin] would be along and that the old citizens were trying to get the Mormons to vote for them and there being two parties, they sought hard for their vote, but the Mormons were all for the Democrat candidates. But the thing passed along until the day of election when the federal candidate for representative mounted on to a barrel and called on the citizens and made a long speech, abusing the Mormons all that he could and said that he had been to drive the Mormons and he would do it again; and then he got down and in a few minutes there was one of the Missourians struck one of the Mormons and then another Mormon stepped in between them. Then he was knocked down and then both parties gathered some clubs and they commenced. There were about 20 Mormons and 100 Missourians and the Mormons knocked them down as fast as they could get them away until they got out of the way, but the Missourians got guns and kept the Mormons from voting the next morning.

The Mormons in Far West (Caldwell County) heard that the Missourians had two Mormons on the ground dead and would not let them be buried and about 100 of the Mormons got on their horses and went out to get them, but found when they got there that there had not any of them been killed, and then they went to see some of the judges and wished to have the matter settled, wishing him to sign a paper that he would do all that he could to keep the peace, which he was willing to do. And he then went to the circuit judge and made oath that the Mormons compelled him to sign it, and got out writs for a number of the Mormons and made some attempt to take them, but the sheriff was afraid and made a great complaint but after some bustle, Lyman Wight and Joseph Smith, Jr. gave themselves up and had an examination and were put to bail, and the Mormons hoped that it would stop here. But the Missourians began to move their families out of the neighborhood where the Mormons lived, and gathered together all the help that they could and said that the Mormons should leave the county, and they took some Mormons prisoner and the Mormons used them very bad, and shot at some others, and then the Mormons made some complaint to the circuit judge in Ray County and the major general of Clay County, and they ordered about 200 troops out, which came on and stayed about 15 days and we thought that the matter was settled and we all went about our business.

But the mob soon gathered against a small place called DeWitt at the mouth of Grand River, which place was half owned by Mormons. The mob got them a cannon and came on very strong and the militia officers said that they could not do anything with them. The mob then burned some houses and shot some of the Mormons but not killed any at that time. The mob then proposed to make a treaty with them, which they did, hoping that it would stop there and that the difficulty would be settled. But as soon as the Mormons left DeWitt, the mob gathered around Daviess County in two companies, one of the west of Clinton County and the other on the east in Livingstone County and commenced by burning some of the Mormon's houses and we saw that, unless there was something done to stop them, that we must have a battle as they were moving away their families and some of them setting fire to their houses to raise excitement, which the Mormons saw that they would do. Then the Mormons made the best moves that they could to defend themselves and their families, and the mob saw that mobbing was not what they thought it was and they fled and left their cannon and their houses and then it was mob for mob, and the Missourians most all left the county.

So you see that they were fairly at it and we concluded that we would as soon die as live in this way. The Mormons then went at their work except a few that were kept out for to see the movement of the mob. As the militia officers said that they could not do any more and it appeared that the mob did not know what to do when the Reverend Mr. Boyard [Samuel Bogart] of Ray County had gotten the permit of the general to call out a company of 36 to guard that county, and he got about as many more that volunteered and they came into the south part of Caldwell County and made some threats and took some of the Mormons prisoners. When the Mormons heard it, they went to relieve them and came on them unawares, it being the first time that the Mormons could get to have a battle [of Crooked River] with them when there were three Mormons killed and some wounded. I have not been able to ascertain how many of the mob were killed (but I think some 20 or 30). There was one of the men here at my house last week that was taken prisoner. He said that when Mr. Boyard [Bogart] saw that they had gotten to fight, he took him and placed him in front of his line between the two companies and then had their guns reserved to shoot him if he attempted to run. He waited until the first fire when he started. They shot him through the left shoulder. This skirmish was what they wanted. They then sent to the governor to have help and he ordered about 5,000 troops out and gave General [John B.] Clark the command to come and settle the difficulty. [Surrender at Far West] They came up and without letting the Mormons know who they were, they made an attempt to march into the town when the Mormons met them, and they came back in the morning. They sent word in to the Mormons that they must give up their leader and guns, and their property, and leave the state or be exterminated. So you see that the cause was not inquired into but you must do this or be killed, when we as a people are ready to have the whole subject investigated. The men that they first wanted were Joseph Smith, Jr., Signey Rigdon, Hyrum Smith, Lyman Wight, Parley P. Pratt, and George W. Robinson. These men they expected to shoot without trial but General [Alexander] Doniphan of Clay County said that if they were going to murder he would not have any hand in it, and he took his troops and went home. They then proceeded and took from the remainder all the guns and swords and then put four companies to guard all the Mormons, as they were all in Caldwell County towns, and they did not allow them to go out for a week, in which time they took about 200 horses, cattle, sheep, hay and corn and took some money, some bed clothes and then they went to Daviess County and served them the same.

I was at Far West while the troops were there and I did not go home as they threatened my life. Then they took about 60 more prisoners and took them to Richmond, Ray County, where they pretended to examine them, when they let some go and some they put to bail, some they have kept in jail, charged with almost all crimes that can be mentioned. I saw two men the first day of February [1839]. They told me that Joseph Smith, Jr. and all those that were with him in prison would be let out on bail or set free and that all their proceedings had been contrary to law and that they have no business with any of them. Such is the ignorance of the people in that county, that they wind themselves up and if any man which they have confidence in tells them anything, they will do it.

While the troop was at Far West, there were about 30 Mormons that were moving and got within 15 miles of the town where about 100 of the mob fell upon them [at Haun's Mill] and killed 17 men, two boys, and wounded some more and took their wagons and horses and left the women to bury the dead. They dragged them and put them into a well that had no water in and covered them up. Amongst the wounded was one man that had two ball holes in his skin, two balls passed through his body, one through his hip and he is now walking and riding about. They say that they will not shoot him again. A man by the name of McBride [Thomas McBride] was killed, but not Rueben.

There is one more circumstance that I will mention. There is one man taken prisoner by the troops that came into Far West and one of the men took his gun and struck him on the head and killed him. I mention this that you may see what the troops were. No sir, the Mormons have made all the exertions that they could to have their abuse taken notice of, but not the first thing can they get done. I could mention numerous abuses such as whipping, tying ropes to their heels and putting them into wells, and making them deny Joseph Smith, tar blacking them and most all ways to torment them. There have been petitions sent to the legislature and they quarrel about it and then they dropped it. The Mormons do all calculate to leave the state as fast as they can get away. But what the final end will be, I am not able to say. I would not have you think that all the Mormons have done is exactly right but when men are pushed as the Mormons were, they will do almost anything to save their lives and the lives of their families. So sir, I do not believe that we should have had any difficulty had they not been afraid that the Mormons would have carried the election next year. There is not a Mormon in this church that has had a better chance to know the minds of the leading men than I have, and I do know that they would let the Missourians alone had they been let alone.

This letter has been written to tell you the persecution as near as I could. There is much more that I could write but have not time now. Perhaps there may be mistakes, but I have not the time to copy it and you must get the best sense of it that you can. Now sir, I ask you and every republican in these United States, how you would like to be brought up and compelled to lay down your arms. I think that you would feel the same as I did, that death would be a welcome messenger if you could have the privilege of fighting as long as life lasted and I ask not to live one moment but to get revenge.

Now I will let you know something of my situation and the situation of that country. I was placed in as good a situation as any man in this state to get a living, but now am deprived of it all except my health and the faith I have in that God that has created and preserved me thus far through life. I expect to go from here as soon as the river is navigable. Where I shall stop I do not know as yet and I am of the opinion that all citizens of these United States that do not know how to pity Mormons will some time know it.

The country is the best country to get a living in that I have seen. A man that is industrious can get a good property in two or three years. It is two years last August that the Mormons settled in the small county of Caldwell. It is 24 miles square and there are now more potatoes for sale than in all the rest of Missouri south of the river, and corn can be bought for 10 cents per bushel in large quantities.

I must close this lengthy communication by sending my best respects to you and family and old neighbors, hoping that the time will come when I can see them again in this world or the one to come, and as my fathers have done, so have I been willing to lay down my life for my liberty and I am willing to do it for my friend that is deprived of his liberty. I wish you would send word to my mother. Tell her that my family is all well and that they send their love to her and we are of the same faith that we were when we left there. Say to Sister Clarrisa that I was glad to hear from her and from those that belong to the same faith and that I am not in a situation to advise them now but as soon as I can find out what is best for the eastern brethren, I will write to them. I and my companion send our best respects to her and all in that place.

Yours in good spirit and feelings to all that are republicans. Indeed I go the whole hog for liberty or I die.

V. [Vinson] Knight
Spencerburg, Missouri February 8, 1839
Wm. [William] Cooper, Esq., Perrrysburg, Catteraugus County, New York

At this meeting it was unanimously agreed that should be" a Stake and a place of gathering for the Saints" and Bishop Partridge was appointed to preside as Bishop of the Upper Ward, while Bishop Newel K. Whitney and Bishop Vinson Knight were assigned in like capacity to the Middle and Lower Wards, respectively.
Reference: Latter-Day Saints Biographical Encyclopedia; Volume 1; Biographies: Whitney, Newell Kimball

LAND: History of James Bailey Maxwell, (SR)
Compiled by Dale Maxwell Holyoak
4 May 2001

Page 1
In 1839, "Bishop (Vinson) Knight (had) bought for the Church part of the town of Keokuk, Iowa…the whole of another town-site called Nashville, six miles above Keokuk…(and) four miles above Nashville…a settlement called Montrose, part of which Knight bought, together with 30,000 acres of land." In a letter from Governor Robert Lucas of Iowa to A. Ripley, dated 4 January 1840, Governor Lucas wrote, "Since their expulsion from Missouri a portion of them, (the Mormons), about one hundred families, have settled in Lee County, Iowa Territory, and are generally considered industrious, inoffensive, and worthy citizens." (Hubert Howe Bancroft's History of Utah 1540 - 1886, page 140, paragraph one and footnote).

LAND: History of James Bailey Maxwell, (SR)
Compiled by Dale Maxwell Holyoakd
4 May 2001 - Page 1
In 1839, "Bishop (Vinson) Knight (had) bought for the Church part of the town of Keokuk, Iowa…the whole of another town-site called Nashville, six miles above Keokuk…(and) four miles above Nashville… a settlement called Montrose, part of which Knight bought, together with 30,000 acres of land. "In a letter from Governor Robert Lucas of Iowa to A. Ripley, dated 4 January 1840, Governor Lucas wrote, "Since their expulsion form Missouri a portion of them (the Mormons), about one hundred families, have settled in Lee County, Iowa Territory, and are generally considered industrious, inoffensive, and worthy citizens." (Hubert Howe Bancroft's HISTORY OF UTAH 1540 - 1886, page 140, paragraph one and footnote).

Nauvoo, Illinois Tax Index, 1842
Given Name: VINSON
Surname: KNIGHT
Page: 232
Coord.: 6N8W
Source Information:
Platt, Lyman. Nauvoo, Illinois Tax Index, 1842 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: The Generations


DEATH: The Cemetery Record of William D. Huntington, Nauvoo Sexton
Fred E. Woods
1839 - 1845
Names Date Yrs. Mo. Days Disease Block Lot Grave
Vinson Knight 31-Jul 37 4 19 Unknown


OBITUARY:

"Died,-- In this city, on Sunday the 31st day of July last [1842], Vinson Knigth aged 38 years. Brother Knight was one of the bishops of this church, and a man favored of God, and respected by all good men.
He had been long in the church and had always adorned his life, works and profession, with the decorum virtue and humility, which ever characterizes the true followers of our blessed Jesus.
Warring the great warfare of a saint, he has waded through the midst of persecution, over the blood stained praries of Missouri, in the chilling blasts of winter, comforting the fleeing saints, and adminstering to the wants of his own family; yea through great tribulations, heart and hand with his brethern; he was ever ready to give a reasonable answer for his hope in things to come; and showed by his actions as well as words, that he meant t live godly in Christ Jesus, although he suffered persecution.
Though he has been removed, as it were in the midst of life, yea in the assurance of a glorious resurrection, he has died the death of the righteous; henceforth there is laid up for him a crown that fadeth not away. "Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord!"

Times and Seasons Vol III, page 894 for Monday the 15 August 1842

1603 Richard Knight, 1656 David Knight, 1693 David E. Knight, 1721 David Knight, 1742 Samuel Knight, 1768 Rodolphus Knight, 1804 Vinson Knight, 1833 James Vincent Knight, 1887 Samuel Lee Knight, 1917 Milton Knight

[Admin]

Martha MCBRIDE [Parents] [scrapbook]-395 was born on 17 Mar 1805 in Chester, Washington, New York. She died on 20 Nov 1901 in Hooper, Weber, Utah. She was buried in Nov 1901 in Ogden City Cemetary, Ogden, Weber, Utah. Martha married Bishop Vinson KNIGHT-390 on 6 Jul 1826 in Perrysburg, Cattaraugus, New York.

Other marriages:

SMITH, Joseph Jr.
KIMBALL, Heber Chase


DEATH: Levi Byram and Martha Jane Belnap
Gold Medal Pioneers
By Donald Levi Gale Hammon
1996 Page 22
WIDOW OF PROPHET JOSEPH SMITH DEAD
A woman who was married in turn to Vinson Knight, presiding bishop of the Mormon church; to Joseph Smith, its first president, and to Heber C. Kimball, died yesterday of old age at the home of Bishop Belnap in Hooper. She was Mrs. Martha Kimball. She was in her 97th year. She was born March 17, 1805, at Chester, Washington county N. Y. She was married to Vinson Knight, July 26, 1826. Her husband died July 31, 1842, at Nauvoo. He was the presiding bishop of the Morman church at that time. She came to Utah in 1850, settling in Ogden, where she made her home for a number of years. She went to Hooper in 1869, where she had lived most of the time since, although visiting often with relatives in other parts of Utah. She was sealed by the Mormon rite to the Prophet Joseph Smith at Nauvoo, a short time before his death. After the death of the Prophet Joseph Smith, she was married to Heber C. Kimball, and by him she had one child, who died in infancy. She was the mother of six other children by her first husband, Mr. Knight, and three of thise survive her all of them being between 70 and 80 years of age. They are Mrs. Almira Hanson, who resides new Cleveland O.; Mrs. Adeline Belnap, living in Hooper, this county, and James Knight, who resides at Clearfield, Piute county. She had a great many grandchildren and great-grandchildren and several great-great-grandchildren. Pictures of the old lady grouped with four of her direct descendants are to be found in the homes of most of her Ogden, relatives. The picture of the child in the accompanying illustration is that of Heber Balantine, grandson of former Sheriff Gilbert R. Belnap, and great-grandson of the daughter at whose home the old lady passed away. The physical strength and endurance of Mrs. Knight was well-nigh marvelous. For nearly twenty years she had not used spectacles. Her needlework was a model for fineness amongst all her acquaintances for the past fifty years. She was a great reader particularly of the daily papers, reading every word of telegraphic news, and during the Spanish-American was she was regarded as one of the best posted persons in Weber county on the military operations of the contending forces. Two of three years ago at a birthday reunion of the family held in her honer, Mrs. Knight was called on for a speech, and prefaced one of considerable length with a recital of the tremendous changes which had taken place in her lifetime, mentioning the steam engine, the modern printing press and the telegraph. To illustrate this latter she described with what slowness news traveled when she was a young women of 40, and wound up her recital of how on that very day the entire country was able to watch every, detail of a little affair at Carson City was knocked out by Fitzsimmons.

BIOGRAPHY: Website The Wifes of Joseph Smith-Martha McBride wife of Bishop Vinson Knight M:6 July 1826 Norwich,,Massachusetts.
Martha McBride (Knight)(Smith)(Kimball), 1805-1901, married Joseph Smith in August 1842, at age thirty-seven. Joseph married her as the widow of Vinson Knight, another important early bishop, with whom she had lived from 1826 to July 31, 1842, when he died , and with whom she had seven children. After Smith's death, she married Heber C. Kimball for time on October 12, 1844, to whom she bore one child that died at birth. Nevertheless she lived most of her later life with relatives in Utah, especially in Ogden and Hooper.

Pioneer Ancestors, Salt Lake City Chapter SUP
Martha McBride Knight Born 17 March 1805 at Chester, Washington County, New York. Entered Salt Lake Valley 17 September 1850

Martha McBride Knight was the youngest of nine children born to Daniel and Abigail Mead McBride. She was raised in a religious home by parents who had great faith in God. Her father was a Campbellite minister. Following her marriage in 1826 to Vinson Knight, the couple lived on a prosperous farm in Perrysburg, New York. Two Mormon missionaries, Joseph Smith and Parley P. Pratt, stopped at the Knight home one evening in March, 1834, to ask for a night's lodging. As a result of this visit, Martha and Vinson accepted the Gospel and were baptized. Shortly afterward, they sold their farm and traveled with relatives and other new converts to Kirtland, Ohio, to join the Saints.

Heart Throbs of the West
Heart Throbs of the West: Volume 4
The Contribution of Eastern United States To Utah
Charter Members of the Relief Society

Martha McBride Knight. Refinement, religious fervor and supreme loyalty characterized the life of Martha McBride Knight, the 9th child of Daniel McBride, a Camp-bellite minister of New York, and Abigail Mead. She was born March 17, 1805, at Chester, Washington County, New York. She was married July 26, 1826 to Vinson (Vincent) Knight, who inherited a farm at Perrysburgh, New York, from his father, Dr. Rodolphus Knight of Norwich, Massachusetts. They acquired considerable wealth from their farm. Joseph Smith and Parley P. Pratt brought the Gospel to them March 21, 1834.
The first test of her faith was the departure of her husband for Zion's Camp, organized by Joseph Smith for the redemption of Zion. Upon Vinson's return the farm was sold at a great sacrifice. The Knights and four little children, accompanied by Newel Knight, Lydia Goldthwait and Maria Crandall, traveled 135 miles by stage coach and canal boat to Kirtland. They assisted in the building of the City of Kirtland and the Kirtland Temple. Afterward he moved his family to Adam-ondi-Ahman, where he became the bishop. Later, with the Saints, they lived for a season in Nauvoo. Martha joined the sewing circle and was a charter member of the first Relief Society. A few months later her husband died, July 31, 1842, and in September 1842 her son Nathaniel passed away.
She often told her grandchildren of the cruel martyrdom of the prophet, the sorrowing of the Saints and the solemn services; her witnessing the form of Brigham Young change to the person of Joseph Smith, and Brigham's voice ringing out in the tone of Joseph's voice, declaring him the leader of the wondering Saints. She remembered the cruel expulsion of the Saints from Nauvoo, and the crossing of the Mississippi on the ice. She recalled the long winters with crude shelters at Winter Quarters and the tedious journey across the trackless plains. The burial of her baby grandson in Gilbert Belnap's tool-chest by the wayside was one sorrow she never forgot. They arrived in Salt Lake Valley, September 15, 1850, in Jonathan Foote's Company; and were assigned to go to Ogden to make their home. She was sustained first counselor to Delilah Pierce Palmer, first president of Ogden City Relief Society, January 6, 1856. Mrs. Knight witnessed the grasshopper plague; she attended the dedicatory services of the St. George Temple, and worked for her kindred dead in that edifice. After the death of her husband she married Joseph Smith, and later became the plural wife of Heber C. Kimball. Her children were Almira K. Hancom Stoddard, Rizpah K. Gibbons, Adaline K. Belnap, James Vinson, Martha A., Rodolphus Elderkin, and Nathaniel, who died in infancy, and an infant child born after her marriage to Heber C. Kimball. She was noted for her expert needlework, Her handmade handkerchief linen temple robe, used in the Nauvoo Temple, and a colorful artistically designed hand-made quilt top are preserved by her grand-children. She died November 1, 1901 at Hooper, Utah, at the age of 97. -Florence R. Ellison.
He has not served who gathers gold,
Nor has he served whose life is told
In selfish battles he has won,
Or deeds of skill that he has done.
But he has served who now and then
Has helped along his fellowmen.
-Author Unknown.

Source Information:
Ancestry.com. Heart Throbs of the West [database online]. Orem, Utah: MyFamily.com, Inc., 1998. Original data: Kate Carter, Heart Throbs of the West. Vol. I-XII. Salt Lake City, UT: Daughters of Utah Pioneers, 1947.

History of James Bailey Maxwell, (SR)
Compiled by Dale Maxwell Holyoak
4 May 2001
Page 2
During the following crisis of leadership for the Church, special meetings were held on 8 August 1844 to determine who should lead the Church. In the morning, Sidney Rigdon put himself forth to be the leader. In the 2 o'clock meeting, Brigham Young, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, addressed the saints, was transfigured before them, appearing as Joseph Smith, and speaking with the voice of the Joseph Smith, the Prophet, and was accepted to be the leader. Gilbert Belnap's Mother-in-law, Martha McBride Knight, and Sophia Dutton DeGraw (whose family shall appear later in this history), were in attendance at that meeting and witnessed the transformation.

Levi Byram and Martha Jane Belnap
Gold Medal Pioneers
By Donald Levi Gale Hammon
1996 - Page 17

Mormon Pioneer Overland Travel, 1847–1868
Knight, Martha McBride
Birth Date: 17 Mar. 1805
Death Date: 20 Nov. 1901
Gender: Female
Age: 45
Company: Warren Foote Company (1850)
Sources: "Death of Pioneer Woman," The Standard, 21 Nov. 1901, 5. Source Locations
"Veteran Laid to Rest," Deseret Evening News, 27 Nov. 1901, 7. Source Locations
1850 Utah Census, Davis Co. Source Locations
Our Pioneer Heritage, 20 vols. [1958-77], 10:403.

Mini-biography: Martha McBride Knight
familysearch.org/photos/stories/10477271
Contributed By AndyJ · 29 September 2014
Martha McBride was born March 17, 1805, in New York. She had dark hair, and grew up petite, but physically strong. She married Vinson Knight, a farmer. Both were 21 years old. They had seven children. Some of Martha's family had joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Joseph Smith and Parley Pratt taught the gospel to Vinson and Martha in their home. The Knights were baptized in the spring of 1834. They left their farm and moved to Kirtland. They participated in dedication of Kirtland Temple, and received a patriarchal blessings from Joseph Smith, Senior. They helped settle Kirtland, Adam-ondi-Ahman, and Nauvoo. Martha's husband, Vinson, was called to bishoprics wherever they lived. Because of persecution, they were forced to flee their home in Adam-ondi-Ahman, Missouri, in winter. After settling in Nauvoo, Martha attended the meeting that founded the Relief Society, on her 37th birthday. The next year, Vinson died suddenly from typhoid fever. Around that time, Joseph Smith married Martha. Shortly after Joseph's martyrdom, she was married to Heber C. Kimball, and they had one baby. Martha received her endowment in the Nauvoo Temple. When the Saints were driven from Nauvoo, she loaded a wagon, and left her home. They crossed the frozen Mississippi. While camped at Winter Quarters. While there, Martha was very sick and almost died. In spring 1850, in her 45th year, Martha made the trek west, with family members. She lived with family, in various parts of Utah, for the rest of her life. Martha was known to spin wool and linen to clothe her family. She read, especially newspapers. She sewed with remarkably tiny, neat stitches. She lived to 96 years old, and is buried in the Ogden Cemetery.

MEDIA: D0016 - Martha McBride Knight w/o Vinson Knight then w/o Joseph Smith then w/o Herbert Chase Kimball - www.belnapfamily.org/mcbride.htm
D0381 - Adaline Knight with husband Gilbert Belnap, sister wife (and first cousin) Henrietta McBride, Adaline's sister Rizpah Knight Gibbons and mother Martha McBride Knight late 1800s
D0260- Martha Jane Hammon/Adeline Belnap/Martha McBride Knight - Belnap Family Association Photo Section - Left to right: Martha Jane Belnap Hammon, Adaline Knight Belnap, Martha McBride Knight, Polly Adaline Hammon Stoker. Little Pearl Stoker in middle, circa 1893.

CENSUS: Name: Martha Knight
Event Type: Census
Event Year: 1860
Event Place: Tonaquint, Washington, Utah Territory, United States
Gender: Female
Age: 55
Race:
Race (Original): [Blank]
Birth Year (Estimated): 1805
Birthplace: New York
Page: 154
Household ID: 1137
Affiliate Name: The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)
Affiliate Publication Number: M653
GS Film Number: 805314
Digital Folder Number: 004297342
Image Number: 00511
Household Role Gender Age Birthplace
Andrew Givins M 35 Ohio
Rizpah Givins F 31 New York
Martha S Givins F 13 Iowa
Andrew V Givins M 10 Iowa
Wm Givins M 9 Iowa
Eliza Givins F 7 Utah
Richard Givins M 1 Utah
Baby Givins M 0 Utah
Martha Knight F 55 New York
Citing this Record:
"United States Census, 1860," database, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MH2W-8JC : accessed 14 October 2015), Martha Knight in household of Andrew Givins, Tonaquint, Washington, Utah Territory, United States; from "1860 U.S. Federal Census - Population," database, Fold3.com (http://www.fold3.com : n.d.); citing p. 154, household ID 1137, NARA microfilm publication M653 (Washington, D.C.: National Archives and Records Administration, n.d.); FHL microfilm 805,314.

Name: Martha Knight
Event Type: Census
Event Year: 1870
Event Place: Utah, United States
Gender: Female
Age: 65
Race: White
Race (Original): W
Birth Year (Estimated): 1804-1805
Birthplace: New York
Page Number: 28
Household ID: 221
Line Number: 16
Affiliate Name: The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)
Affiliate Publication Number: M593
GS Film number: 000553112
Digital Folder Number: 004267909
Image Number: 00184
Citing this Record:
"United States Census, 1870," database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MNCB-FNT : accessed 14 October 2015), Martha Knight, Utah, United States; citing p. 28, family 221, NARA microfilm publication M593 (Washington D.C.: National Archives and Records Administration, n.d.); FHL microfilm 553,112.

Name: Martha Knight
Event Type: Census
Event Year: 1880
Event Place: Beaver City, Beaver, Utah, United States
District: 1
Gender: Female
Age: 75
Marital Status: Widowed
Race: White
Race (Original): W
Occupation: Keeping House
Relationship to Head of Household: Other
Relationship to Head of Household (Original): Other
Birth Year (Estimated): 1805
Birthplace: New York, United States
Father's Birthplace: New York, United States
Mother's Birthplace: New York, United States
Sheet Number and Letter: 2D
Affiliate Name: The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)
Affiliate Publication Number: T9
Affiliate Film Number: 1335
GS Film Number: 1255335
Digital Folder Number: 004244807
Image Number: 00009
Household Role Gender Age Birthplace
John S Carter Self M 44 Ohio, United States
Martha M Carter Daughter F 15 Utah, United States
Lyman W Carter Son M 1 Utah, United States
Martha Knight Other F 75 New York, United States
Isaac Ivory Other M 19 Utah, United States
Philo V Carter Son M 3 Utah, United States
Martha I Carter Wife F 34 Iowa, United States
William H Carter Son M 5 Utah, United States
Citing this Record:
"United States Census, 1880," database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MNSN-5NH : accessed 14 October 2015), Martha Knight in household of John S Carter, Beaver City, Beaver, Utah, United States; citing enumeration district 1, sheet 2D, NARA microfilm publication T9 (Washington D.C.: National Archives and Records Administration, n.d.), roll 1335; FHL microfilm 1,255,335.

Name: Martha Knight
Event Type: Census
Event Year: 1900
Event Place: Hooper Precinct, Weber, Utah, United States
District: 181
Gender: Female
Age: 95
Marital Status: Widowed
Race: White
Race (Original): White
Relationship to Head of Household: Mother
Relationship to Head of Household (Original): Mother
Number of Living Children: 3
Years Married:
Birth Date: Mar 1805
Birthplace: New York
Marriage Year (Estimated):
Immigration Year:
Father's Birthplace:
Mother's Birthplace:
Mother of how many children: 7
Sheet Number and Letter: 2B
Household ID: 29
Line Number: 91
Affiliate Name: The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)
Affiliate Publication Number: T623
GS Film Number: 1241688
Digital Folder Number: 004115263
Image Number: 00387
Household Role Gender Age Birthplace
Adaline H. Belnap Head F 69 New York
Lola I. Belnap Daughter F 26 Utah
Eli R. Stoddard Boarder M 11 Utah
Martha Knight Mother F 95 New York
David W. Coolbear Boarder M 30 Utah
Citing this Record:
"United States Census, 1900," database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MMRY-BS7 : accessed 14 October 2015), Martha Knight in household of Adaline H. Belnap, Hooper Precinct, Weber, Utah, United States; citing sheet 2B, family 29, NARA microfilm publication T623 (Washington, D.C.: National Archives and Records Administration, n.d.); FHL microfilm 1,241,688.

They had the following children.

F i Almira KNIGHT-401 was born on 21 Jun 1827. She died on 23 Jan 1912 from Exhaustion - Arterio Sclerosis.
F ii Rizpah Jane KNIGHT-400 was born on 13 May 1829. She died on 17 Mar 1895.
F iii Adeline H. KNIGHT-399 was born on 4 May 1831. She died on 10 Jun 1919 from Unknown but natural - no doctor in attendance at time of death.
M iv James Vinson KNIGHT-402 was born on 4 Sep 1833. He died on 11 Apr 1912 from Strangulated Hernia.
M v
Nathaniel KNIGHT-404 was born on 31 Dec 1835 in Kirtland, Lake, Ohio. He died on 31 Oct 1836 in Kirtland, Lake, Ohio.
F vi
Martha Abigail KNIGHT-397 was born on 9 Feb 1839 in Spencerburg, Pike, Missouri. She died on 24 Mar 1844 in Nauvoo, Hancock, Illinois.



DEATH: The Cemetery Record of William D. Huntington, Nauvoo Sexton
Fred E. Woods
1839 - 1845
Names Date Yrs. Mo. Days Disease Block Lot Grave
Martha A. Knight 5 1 16 Measles

BIRTH: Excerpt from the Life of Martha McBride Knight Smith Kimball
Forced to flee Missouri following Governor Bogg's Extermination Order, Martha's family found refuge with some friends in Pike County, Missouri near the Mississippi River, where Martha gave birth to Martha Abigail Knight on 9 February 1839.
M vii
Rodolphus Elderkin KNIGHT-403 was born on 29 Sep 1841 in Nauvoo, Hancock, Illinois. He died on 3 Sep 1842 in Nauvoo, Hancock, Illinois. He was buried in Old Nauvoo Burial Grounds, Nauvoo, Hancock, Illinois.