Dedication of the Land
The Colesville Saints were located in Kaw township. The Prophet assisted them in laying the first log, “for a house, as a foundation of Zion” in that place. The log was carried by twelve men representing the twelve tribes of Israel. At the same time it was made manifest through prayer that the land should be consecrated and dedicated by Sidney Rigdon. “It was a season of joy,” the Prophet said, “to those present, and afforded a glimpse of the future, which time will yet unfold to the satisfaction of the faithful.” All this took place on the second day of August, 1831.
Sidney Rigdon, according to his appointment, stood up and asked:
“Do you receive this land for the land of your inheritance, with thankful hearts, from the Lord?”
“We do.”
“Do you pledge yourselves to keep the law of God on this land, which you never have kept in your own lands?”
“We do.”
“Do you pledge yourselves to see that others of your brethren who shall come hither do keep the laws of God?”
“We do.”
After prayer, Elder Rigdon arose and said: “I now pronounce this land consecrated and dedicated unto the Lord for a possession and inheritance for the Saints, and for all the faithful servants of the Lord, to the uttermost ages of time, in the name of Jesus Christ, having authority from him. Amen” (Documentary History of the Church, vol. 1:196).