Commemorating June 2, 1834: The Discovery of Zelph and Its Significance

Just over a month ago, my wife, friends, and I hiked to Zelph's mound. It was almost dark. Amazingly, because the foliage had not grown in yet, we captured one of the best modern pictures of the mound that I have seen. We hiked out in the dark, using a flashlight.

Zelphs Mound

Flashlight Tour

On June 2, 1834, a remarkable event unfolded that continues to captivate those interested in the ancient history of America. This day, often overlooked in the annals of history, saw the Zion's Camp expedition, led by the Prophet Joseph Smith, make a significant crossing of the Illinois River at Phillips Ferry. However, the true significance of this day lies not in the crossing itself, but in the profound discovery that followed.

The Journey of Zion's Camp

Zion's Camp was an expedition organized by Joseph Smith in response to the persecution of church members in Missouri. The journey was arduous, covering hundreds of miles through difficult terrain. Despite the physical challenges, the expedition was driven by a higher purpose—to support and reclaim lands for the displaced church members. This context of faith and determination set the stage for the extraordinary events of June 2, 1834.

Exploration of the Bluffs

As the army traversed the rolling landscape of Illinois, the Prophet Joseph Smith and a few companions took the opportunity to explore the bluffs along the river. Their exploration led them to a significant discovery: a large mound scattered with human bones. This mound, seemingly ordinary in the natural landscape, held secrets of a bygone era. Among the remnants were what appeared to be three ancient altars, adding an air of mystery and reverence to the site.

Unearthing Ancient History

Driven by curiosity and a sense of purpose, the brethren decided to dig into the mound. What they uncovered was nothing short of astonishing—a large human skeleton with a stone arrowhead lodged between its ribs. This arrowhead hinted at a violent death, suggesting that the individual had been a warrior. The discovery of the skeleton was a moment of both awe and solemnity, as it provided a direct, tangible link to the ancient inhabitants of the land.

Revelation and Vision

As the group prepared to leave the hill, Joseph Smith sought divine guidance regarding the identity of the skeletal remains. In an open vision, he learned that the remains belonged to a man named Zelph, a Lamanite warrior chieftain. This revelation was profound. According to the vision, Zelph had been a noble leader, killed during the last great struggle between the Lamanites and Nephites, peoples chronicled in the Book of Mormon.

Significance of the Discovery

The revelation about Zelph transformed the archaeological discovery into a spiritually significant event. Zelph was not just a skeleton in the ground; he was a link to the storied past of the Lamanites and Nephites. This connection provided a tangible affirmation of the histories recorded in the Book of Mormon and offered a glimpse into the lives and conflicts of ancient American civilizations.

Legacy and Reflection

Today, as we commemorate June 2, 1834, we reflect on the journey of Zion's Camp and the extraordinary experiences of its participants. The discovery of Zelph serves as a powerful reminder of the deep and complex history of the American continent. For members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Zelph's story is a testament to the enduring legacy of the ancient inhabitants of this land and the divine revelations that continue to guide and inspire.

This day stands as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of past and present. It calls us to remember that the ground we walk on is rich with history and that the stories of those who came before us are woven into the very fabric of the land. The discovery of Zelph invites us to delve deeper into our understanding of history, to seek connections with those who have walked this land before us, and to honor their legacy