| 665 When the missionaries of the church first visited Kirtland, Ohio, in 1830, they found him engaged in the mercantile business as a member of the firm of Gilbert and Whitney. He was among the first to embrace the gospel in that place. When the Prophet Joseph Smith and wife arrived in Kirtland, in January, 1831, Mr. Whitney received them into his house and provided them a home until other provision could be made.
In December, 1831, Newel K. Whitney was called to the office of bishop, to officiate in Kirtland. He was thereafter designated as the Bishop of Kirtland, while Bishop Partridge was known as the Bishop of Zion. The Bishop of Kirtland was made subject to the Bishop in Zion and instructed to report to him.
In April, 1832, Bishop Whitney accompanied Joseph Smith and others to Missouri. On May 6, in company with Joseph Smith, he started to return. In Indiana the Bishop undertook to jump from a stage while the horses were running, and broke his leg. This delayed them about four weeks, Joseph remaining with him, and caring for him. They finally reached Kirtland sometime in June.
In September, 1832, Bishop Whitney was instructed by revelation to travel around among the churches, searching after the poor to administer to their wants; and was also enjoined to visit the cities of New York, Albany, and Boston, and warn the people with the sound of the gospel.
During the fall of this year he visited those cities, to carry out this instruction. He was accompanied by Joseph Smith.
In May, 1833, Bishop Whitney was reproved by revelation for not having his family in order, and warned that if not more diligent they would be removed out of their place. When Zion's Camp went up to Missouri he remained at his post in Kirtland and looked after church affairs in his department. Though there was nothing especially remarkable about the career of Bishop Whitney, he followed the fortunes of the church while President Smith lived, and was faithful in his calling, retaining the office of Bishop. In September, 1844, he presided over the council which tried Sidney Rigdon. The exparte manner in which he conducted that council, or
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