Quest for the Gold Plates: Thomas Stuart Ferguson's Archaeological Search for the Book of Mormon

by Stan Larson

An account of Thomas Stuart Ferguson's efforts to confirm the archaeology of the Book of Mormon and his final rejection of the historicity of the Book of Mormon.

Genres: Religion, Mormonism, Lds, Nonfiction, History

320 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1996

Reviews

[Barry]

Thomas Stuart Ferguson spent the better part of his life looking for archeological proof of the Book of Mormon both with and without the direct support of the Mormon church. He wrote the book "One Fold, One Shepherd", which I also own.

After devoting his life to finding any shred of proof possible, he died a closet non-believer, as documented in his private letters. It is a very thought provoking and ultimately sad book.

[Wade]

Interesting exploration of the faith journey of Thomas Stewart Ferguson through his lifelong search for evidence of Book of Mormon historicity. It includes a thorough analysis of anachronisms as well as an overview of the history and controversy within the Book of Abraham.

[Mike]

While this book is professed by the author to be unbiased, I couldn't help getting the impression as it went on that he was trying to point out how false everything must be as a result of Ferguson's research. It began irritating me, especially because I felt like the first several chapters WERE an unbiased discussion of the archaeological process and findings. That feeling slowly went downhill as the author delved more into Ferguson's opinions later in life rather than his actual findings. It could be argued that they complement each other, however as soon as you start discussing opinions, science ends.

I did very much enjoy the information presented, and I think that it helps to have a perspective on the dead end that this particular geographical area has shown itself to be.

All in all this was an informative book, however if I had it to recommend to someone who wants information I would suggest skipping all chapters that only discuss Ferguson's life, letters, and emotions.

[Seán]

A very fair and considerate examination of the life of an ardently faithful Mormon whose attempts to verify the historicity of Joe Smith's various texts led ultimately to his belief that the so-called Prophet of Palmyra was a "phony bastard."

Marion G. Romney, Mitt's cousin, makes an appearance in the book, overseeing the conversion program in Mexico and praising the digs to the hilt. BONUS!

[Markii]

the story of a man's (ferguson) quest to find archaeological evidence in south america supporting the book of mormon. towards the end there are many insights into how one can live as a non-believer while staying active in a church.

[Don LaVange]

This belongs to Roberto. I need to read it and give it back.

[Brian]

This is a great look at the life of Thomas Ferguson. There are also very helpful lists of the verses in the Book of Mormon in which different animals and plants and technologies and so on appear.

[Joel]

This is an excellent book.