The Temple

It was the design of the leaders to erect at Far West a magnificent temple whose walls and towers were to be an evidence to future generations of their zeal and prosperity. One tenth part of all labor, time, and earnings was devoted to the buildings of the temple; public store-houses to receive offerings and donations were built. Great rocks for the foundation were hauled: a basement was excavated; the corner stone was laid; but the temple was not built. Feuds and jealousies among themselves, and the hostility of their neighbors, prevented the consummation of the project. Now the ruins of the foundation and one farm house are all that are left to mark the site of the city and temple which the deluded followers of Joe. Smith had been taught to believe was consecrated to the Most High and to them, His chosen people.

Crosby Johnson, An Illustrated Historical Atlas of Caldwell County, Missouri.    1876.  Edwards Brothers