Juliann Makes a Confession

[_beastie]

In regards to Emma's beliefs in Joseph's mission, one thing should be clarified: Brigham Young pushed the idea that Emma wanted her sons to lead the church and pushed them towards the RLDS when the Utah church wouldn't comply. However, I just finished reading the biography of the youngest son of Joseph Smith, David, (From Mission to Madness by Avery) and the information in that book does not support Brigham's claim. It appears that Emma really didn't have anything to do with any LDS sect until the RLDS began heavily courting Joseph III to be their prophet. Joseph III did not agree until he went through his own spiritual soul-searching and prayer, and AFTER he agreed to become prophet then Emma became involved in the group. Moreover, the attempts of the RLDS to court the family were rebuffed at first. Charles Bidamon more or less told the RLDS that none of the family wanted anything to do with any of it (I'll try to find the exact quote later). Whether that reflected the wishes of Bidamon alone or of Emma as well is speculation. But I don't think Emma's behavior, after Joseph's death, is consistent with the idea of her having a firm conviction of his role as prophet. I think her behavior is more consistent with someone who was always going to support her family members in their decisions and life-choices.

She certainly never "got over" his polygamy, and continued to detest polygamy and view it as adultery till the end. This is clearly the attitude she taught her children, who were at risk of emotional upheaval when they learned the truth. (which they did to varying degrees - David definitely was convinced Joseph practiced polygamy after his Utah missions)