Subject
Mountain Meadows Massacre, Utah, 1857 Books
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T. B. H. Stenhouse
An Englishwoman in Utah: The Story of a Life's Experience in Mormonism
"An Englishwoman in Utah: The Story of a Life's Experience in Mormonism" by Stenhouse is an autobiography written in the late 19th century. The book recounts the author's life experiences, particularly her journey into and experiences with Mormonism, including her early life in England and eventual migration to Utah. The narrative highlights the complexities of life within the Mormon faith, notably focusing on themes of women’s rights, polygamy, and personal sacrifice. The opening of the autobiography sets the stage for Stenhouse’s journey, beginning with her reflections on her early life in Jersey, her religious upbringing, and her introduction to Mormonism through her family’s conversion. As Stenhouse grapples with her new identity as a convert, she describes the cultural and emotional conflicts that arise from her dedication to her faith, the pressure to conform, and her eventual marriage to a Mormon elder. The beginning also foreshadows the challenges she will face as she confronts the oppressive aspects of polygamy and the societal expectations of women within the church, inviting readers to anticipate a deep exploration of faith and feminism intertwined with personal narrative.
John Doyle Lee
The Mormon Menace: The Confessions of John Doyle Lee, Danite
"The Mormon Menace: The Confessions of John Doyle Lee, Danite" by Lee and Lewis is a historical account likely written in the early 20th century. The book serves as a firsthand narrative of John Doyle Lee, a prominent member of the Danites—a secretive group within the Mormon Church—who confesses to his involvement in the notorious Mountain Meadows Massacre under the direction of Brigham Young. It explores Lee's life through the lens of his faith, the violent events he participated in, and the tumultuous backdrop of early Mormon history. The opening of the book introduces John Doyle Lee's childhood and early struggles, marked by a turbulent family life and a fierce desire for belonging and purpose. He recounts his experiences growing up in Illinois, detailing the hardships and conflicts that shaped him, including the death of his mother and the harsh treatment from his relatives. As an adolescent, Lee's journey leads him to the Mormon Church, where he becomes a dedicated follower of its teachings, eventually becoming a member of the feared Danites. This initial glimpse into Lee's life sets the stage for a deeper exploration of his role in the complexities and dark history of early Mormonism, the conflicts with non-Mormons, and the ideological and spiritual factors that influenced his actions.
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