Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Kirtland, Ohio, 8 March 1831 (see History of the Church, 1:166). Prior to this time Oliver Cowdery had acted as Church historian and recorder. John Whitmer had not sought an appointment as historian, but, being asked to serve in this capacity, he had said that he would obey the will of the Lord in the matter. He had already served as a secretary to the Prophet in recording many of the revelations received in the Fayette, New York, area.