Updates in 2011
We've done some recent updating to the news items on the Front Page. But the main thing is some revisions, both major and minor, in the biographical sketches of individual militiamen.
The bios have been substantially revised for Alexander Loveridge, Augustus Allen, Benjamin Arthur, Columbus Freeman, Charles Hopkins, Dudley Leavitt, Daniel Macfarlane, Don Carlos (Carl) Shirts and David Tullis. I'll keep working through the other militiamen as I find the time. Also, some have suggested we include information on such figures as George A. Smith, Jacob Hamblin, etc. Great suggestion! I will add that over time.
We'll continue to add to these bios over time. We hope to locate additional photographs of the militiamen and historical photos or woodcuts depicting other details relevant to our subject matter. It's an ongoing process. If you have any, I'd be interested in hearing from you.
To add additional information about the background of an important group of militiamen, coming soon is an article on the British ironworkers, their activities on the Cedar City ironworks and how the repeated failures at the ironworks may have contributed to the overall sense of frustration and failure in Cedar City. It treats both the British immigrants drawn into the massacre and those who, for whatever reason, were not.
Here are some other plans for the site:
- I have photographs of the dedications and programs at Mountain Meadows from 1999, 2007 and 2009. Some are quite good and help show some of the "reconciliation" efforts among various communities and peoples. Progress is always slow, but real progress has been made.
- During 2011, the Mountain Meadows Massacre site has become a National Historic Landmark. There will be events commemorating this important change in status during 2011. I hope to add coverage and photographs of these events.
- Since 2007, officials of the Mormon Church have made important statements, acknowledgements and expressions of regret. Some know of these important statements, but many still are unaware. Another idea is to add a news section summarizing these statements and events.
- I hope to add some software upgrades so as to improve the appearance, features and functionality of the site.
We hope you enjoy the site and find it profitable. Some of you may have historical photographs, family histories, genealogical info or just interesting family lore about some of the subjects of our site. Please leave a comment or contact me via email at editor@1857ironcountymilitia.com. I'm interested in seeing what you have, exchanging info and comparing notes!
Best regards to all, Rob
