Church History Sites in Western New York, 1820-1830

This map of New York and Pennsylvania highlights locations linked to the Book of Mormon and the establishment of the restored Church of Jesus Christ. Fleeing persecution, Joseph and Emma left Manchester in December 1827, and settled in Harmony where Joseph would translate most of the plates. In June 1829, Joseph, Oliver, and (later) Emma moved to the Whitmer home in Fayette where the Three Witnesses were shown the plates, the translation was completed, and the Church was organized on 6 April 1830. Other notable sites include South Bainbridge, where Joseph and Emma were married; Seneca Lake, where several people were baptized during the early years of the restoration; and Colesville, where the Church’s first branch was formed.