| 660 CHAPTER 26.
EDWARD PARTRIDGE-NEWEL K. WHITNEY.
IN this chapter we will give Biographies of two of the leading Bishops of the church.
EDWARD PARTRIDGE.
Edward Partridge was the first Bishop of the church. A sketch of his early life quoted from the words of Joseph Smith is published in the body of this work-pages 170, 171. The statement of Elder Pratt, found on page 155 regarding his ordination is a mistake, as he was not baptized until his visit to New York. See page 171.
In a revelation given February 4,1831, he was called to this office, and of him it was said: "His heart is pure before me, for he is like unto Nathaniel of old, in whom there is no guile." In the summer of 1831, in obedience to revelation, Bishop Partridge journeyed to Missouri in company with Joseph Smith and others.
In May, 1831, while at Kirtland, a revelation was given instructing Bishop Partridge regarding consecration, inheritance of the saints, and other matters; and in July further instruction of the same nature was given him concerning Zion. Independence was pointed out as the place for the building of the City, and the Temple Lot indicated. Instruction was also given for the Bishop and others to be planted in Zion. In harmony with this commandment the Bishop located there as soon as he could arrange to do so. Active measures were at once adopted for the gathering of means to purchase land in Zion, and especially to get title to the Temple Lot. This was successful, and on December 19, 1831, Bishop Partridge bought for the church a tract of land including that lot, which has ever since been known as the Temple Lot.
This transfer was made by Jones H. Flournoy and wife, and is on record in Jackson County. 1 The deed was held by
1 To all people to whom these presents shall come, Greeting.
Know ye that we, Jones H . Flournoy and Clara Flournoy, wife of the said
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