Monday, 5 August 2013

Engaging Trivia Concerning The First Edition Book Of Mormon

By Lela Perkins


The First Edition Book of Mormon, in its antique form, is an expensive collectible. But, a replica of this 1830 volume is available for sale for a modest investment. Some very interesting trivia is associated with this publication. History buffs and collectors alike are finding it to be very thought provoking.

If a historical version is a must have, then consider a search for an incredibly valuable one on eBay. There are authentic 1830's editions offered for sale priced from 69,000 to 98,000 US dollars. This is a steep price for the merely curious. Focused and determined buyers might also consider buying one of the lesser collectibles for just under 500 US dollars.

The newest replica is called the 1830 Heritage Book of Mormon. This gives a nod to the long history and certainly family oriented religion. The purchase price is about thirty four dollars. Bound in an attractive brown leatherette cover, with gold imprinted letters, it is advertised as a way for today's Latter Day Saints to read as the earliest saints would have done.

One engaging controversy surrounding the first printed edition is that two typefaces were used. The scribes were said to have delivered the original manuscript to printer E. B. Grandin in Palmyra, New York. For some reason, one sixth of the pages were set using manuscript that was scribed. The rest of the pages were not. Historian Royal Skousen has written an abstract about this peculiar format, asking why this happened. It is a curious thing, for certain.

Due to its relative newness, the Mormon religion often seeks to keep accurate historical writings. Some Latter Day Saints are passionate about authenticating their family histories and enjoy the process of collecting and authenticating rare books that have sprung from the faith. John Hajicek, a noted historian and passionate collector has spent at least a one third of his life doing so. His accumulated library includes over 50,000 books and items related to Mormonism. He has also created a website for viewing his first edition antique Book of Mormon online.

Some non-Mormons have made a website available for comparing changes made in this particular volume over time. The idea is that the official Latter Day Saint Church stance is that nothing has changed from the first to the most current editions. Those opposed to this viewpoint have created a so called comparison machine, which allows internet viewers to see pages side by side of various editions. Apparently at least 4,000 changes have occurred over time. Some are concerning doctrinal issues, while others are simple spelling corrections.

The merely curious wonder why a new replica was published. The faithful undoubtedly view this event as an opportunity to engage in historical studies, renewing confidence in the original writings. The publication is certainly priced to be accessible, and it will undoubtedly be included in many family libraries.

The First Edition Book of Mormon in its newly released replica form may become a new collector item for those of the faith. History buffs might also consider it a good addition to a library devoted to important movements and groups that settled the American West. Its history and controversies make it quite interesting indeed.




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