Clair Barrus will investigate how Joseph Smith’s treasure seeking changed direction in the 1820s in response to Masonic ideology, opening the way for the restoration of scripture. Cheryl Bruno will investigate the underlying objectives of Nauvoo Freemasonry, demonstrating their cross-purposes with the Grand Lodge. The dramatic clash of Mormons and Masons from New York to the Western frontier mirrors the modern Church’s dissociation with prevailing social currents in the contemporary world. The Mormon/Masonic experience is a template for today.

Clair Barrus, Cheryl Bruno, Laurie Vertner, H. Michael Marquardt