The following comes from:
Horace W. Karr, "Joseph
Smith's Prophecy of Mormon Church in Cincinnati Made 98 Years Ago Fulfilled in
Dedication of Chapel," The Commercial Tribune 34, no. 94
(September 16, 1929): 1-2
Ninety-eight years ago Joseph
Smith, founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints prophesied
that a Mormon church some day would be established in Cincinnati. His
declaration looked upon as a divine inspiration by believers in the religion he
typified, came true Sunday afternoon, when a beautiful little chapel on Orchard
street was dedicated.
The chapel, formerly the Fourth
Presbyterian Church, appeared as a new structure, having been renovated inside
and out, painted and fully repaired. It represents a cash investment of
approximately $30,000 and is one of the most attractive chapels in the country.
The dedicatory address and prayer
were delivered by Elder Orson F. Whitney, a native Ohioan, born in the
northeastern part of the state, where the first Mormon temple was erected.
There is perhaps no more learned man in the Mormon church than Elder Whitney,
who has gained considerable fame as a poet, philosopher and church historian.
He spoke with much feeling declaring he was especially proud to participate in
the dedication of a chapel in the state of his nativity. His address was
scholarly and intensely interesting. In conclusion he said he felt that
Mormonism from this time on will be better understood and be received with a
kindlier feeling by the people of Ohio.
Hope Finally Realized
Charles V. Anderson, President of
the Cincinnati branch of the Northern States Mission, gave a brief review of
the trials and tribulations of the small band of Mormons in finally
establishing the Cincinnati chapel. He said he and a few others had worked
fifteen years with the hope of some day forming a chapel here, but he had so
many obstacles to overcome that many times they thought their ambition might
never be realized.
"Even lightning came to
interrupt our plans," he said. "Less than a week ago while we all
were at a high pitch of enthusiasm over the realization of our dreams, a bolt
flashed in a severe storm, struck a wire opposite the church and threatened its
destruction. It did considerable damage in our edifice, but we worked night and
day to get it in condition for the dedication and no one could be prouder than
we are today."
Noah S. Pond of Chicago, President
of the Northern States Mission, presided at the dedicatory exercises. In
introducing Elder Whitney he recounted the struggles of the church membership
in Cincinnati and it was he who told of the prophecy of Joseph Smith. Mr. Pond
and his wife, who is President of the Relief Society, have given much of their
time and efforts to the Cincinnati branch.
Officials Are Sustained
The members unanimously voted
yesterday to sustain Heber J. Grant, First President; his counselors, the
twelve apostles, all located in Salt Lake City, the seat of the church and the
home of the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle, and all local officers.
Splendid music, vocal and
instrumental, marked the dedication. It was with pride that Mr. Anderson referred
to the chapel's new pipe organ.
Elder Whitney, Mr. Pond and other
officials will go to Dayton, O., today to dedicate a new chapel and Tuesday
evening will attend a conference of the Ohio Northern district in Columbus.
The Cincinnati branch has a membership
of nearly 200 and church leaders expect to add many new names to the roster
within the year.
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