Expulsion of Mormons from Jackson County, Missouri

The Expulsion of Mormons from Jackson County, Missouri occurred in 1833 when Mormons (Latter Day Saints) were forcibly displaced from Jackson County, Missouri amidst escalating violence between Mormon residents and non-Mormon vigilantes.

Mormons began establishing a community in Jackson County in 1831, an outpost to the largest Mormon body in Kirtland, Ohio. Jackson County was later designated as a gathering place, where they believed they would eventually establish the city of Zion.

Tensions mounted in July 1833 when a controversial issue of the local Mormon newspaper was published. One article reminded free people of color to bring proper identification before immigrating to Missouri, as required by state law. Another article advised potential Mormon settlers to make financial preparations before immigrating, rather than expecting to obtain land “by the sword” as in the Old Testament. In response, local Missourians formed a mob and destroyed the Mormon printing press.

In October 1833, Mormon leaders received an ultimatum demanding their departure from the county. The expelled Mormons sought refuge in neighboring counties, especially Clay County. Despite legal efforts and sympathy from the Missouri press and state government, the Mormons were unable to regain a foothold in Jackson County. The expulsion had a profound impact on the Latter Day Saint community, shaping their history, migration patterns, and religious development in subsequent years.