who have leased it for the purpose of raising them some grain &c. They have infringed on a road angling from the to Calkins’ and fenced it up. Some of the neighbors are dissatisfied and are throwing down the fences and have had considerable difficulty, and had threatened each other, drawn their bowie knives &c. He was sent for to settle the difficulty, and went and endeavored to effect a settlement which was partially done, but their is yet considerable feeling and dissatisfaction. He thought it would be well if our could go and see them.
The said he had no objections to go and see the brethren and try to have the matter set to rights. We must submit to a little difficulty in order to raise grain for the sustenance of the citizens. [p. [7]]
Probably Israel Calkins, the bishop of the ward located just southeast of Nauvoo. Calkins lived on the prairie near one of the roads running out of Nauvoo. (Nauvoo High Council Minutes, 20–21 Aug. 1842; Clayton, Journal, 16 Aug. 1843; Hancock Co., IL, Deed Records, 1817–1917, vol. K, pp. 198–199, 11 Apr. 1842, microfilm 954,599, U.S. and Canada Record Collection, FHL.)
Nauvoo High Council Minutes, 1839–1845. CHL. LR 3102 22.
As early as 16 March 1845, Brigham Young had counseled the Saints to fence in vacant properties for cultivation, stating, “Dont let us see a lot laying vacant in this place— join fences together & make an immense stout fence, for there is ground enough in the City without going into the Prairer [prairie] . . . we want you to plow, plant & stay at home.” Although there is no record of Young’s actions in this dispute, he may have had this and similar cases in mind the next day when he counseled the Saints to “put yourselves to inconveniences— fence up all you can, & get the food— we want the potatoes &c &c & be willing to bear the difficulties this Summer.” (Historian’s Office, General Church Minutes, 11 and 16 Mar. 1845.)
Historian’s Office. General Church Minutes, 1839–1877. CHL