David J. Whittaker, "The Records of Mormon History: A Guide to the Major Libraries and Collections"

File — Box: 8, Folder: 22

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

From the Collection: The Irene M. Bates papers (1833-1998) contain correspondence, articles, patriarchal blessings, research materials, bibliographies, meeting minutes, text excerpts, and notes. The majority of the collection deals with research Bates did on patriarchal blessings, which are given to members of the LDS Church by the presiding stake patriarch. These blessings are considered to be sacred documents, which tell the individual the lineage that they have from the twelve tribes of Israel and also other pertinent personal information. Also included in the collection are research materials dealing with the main patriarchs: Joseph Smith Jr., Joseph Smith Sr., William Smith, Hyrum G. Smith, Hyrum F. Smith, Hyrum Smith, and Isaac Morley among others. The collection also contains a survey that Bates conducted for research asking members of the LDS Church questions regarding their own patriarchal blessings.

Dates

1833-1998

Conditions Governing Access

Twenty-four hour advanced notice encouraged. Materials must be used on-site. Access to parts of this collection may be restricted under provisions of state or federal law.