Essentials in Church History A History of the Church from the Birth of Joseph Smith to the Present Time (1922), with Introductory Chapters on the Antiquity of the Gospel and the "Falling Away"

This volume offers a concise yet thorough overview of the church’s beginnings, designed both for casual readers and for use in instructional settings. It weaves essential doctrinal teachings with the chronological story of the movement, inviting listeners to see how early revelations shaped the faith’s development. The author’s careful selection of key events aims to spark curiosity and encourage deeper study of more detailed sources.

The first sections explore the ancient roots of the gospel and the circumstances that led to a needed restoration, then follow the formative years of Joseph Smith—from his family background and youthful visions to the arrival of the angelic messenger and the translation of sacred records. Readers also encounter the early organization of the church, the first public ministries, and the challenges faced as the fledgling community moved from New York to Ohio.

Presented in a clear, narrative style, the book serves as a solid foundation for anyone interested in understanding how the early church emerged and began its journey across the United States.