After John
Taylor’s conversion to the gospel, he traveled from Canada to Kirtland to meet
the prophet Joseph Smith. On his return to trip, he encountered a group of
people outside Columbus, Ohio, who asked him to speak to them.
People gathered
around on the hillside to listen. As John stood on a wagon tongue to speak
about the religious principles of his new found Mormonism, he could see men
with tar and feathers lurking in the back of the congregation.
John began to
speak, “Gentlemen, I know your forefathers fought for the freedom of all men in
this country during the American Revolution. Many of them died for our
freedom.”
John paused momentarily, and then his voice
rose in strength. “I understand you plan to tar and feather me for preaching.
Is this the reason your father’s died in that great war—so you would have the right
to tar and feather someone?”
John stood
straight and tall. “Come on with your tar and feathers, gentlemen. I am ready.”
A hush came over
the people, and every eye was on John.
He grabbed hold
of his vest and shirt and ripped them open, ready for the tar and feathers. The
buttons popped off and fell to the ground. Everyone stood very still—not moving
or saying a word.
