What do you think?
Rate this book
Things in Heaven and Earth: The Life and Times of Wilford Woodruff
Wilford Woodruff converted to the LDS church in 1833, he joined a millenarian group of a few thousand persecuted believers clustered around Kirtland, Ohio. When he died sixty-five years later in 1898, he was the leader of more than a quarter of a million followers worldwide who were on the verge of entering the mainstream of American culture. Before attaining that status of senior church apostle at the death of John Taylor in 1886, Woodruff had been one of the fiercest opponents of United States hegemony. He spent years evading territorial marshals on the Mormon “underground,” escaping prosecution for polygamy, unable even to attend his first wife’s funeral. As church president, faced with disfranchisement and federal confiscation of Mormon property, including temples, Woodruff reached his monumental decision in 1890 to accept U.S. law and to petition for Utah statehood. As church doctrines and practices evolved, Woodruff himself changed. The author examines the secular and religious development of Woodruff’s world view from apocalyptic mystic to pragmatic conciliator. He also reveals the gentle, solitary farmer; the fisherman and horticulturalist; the family man with seven wives; the charismatic preacher of the Mormon Reformation; the astute businessman; the urbane, savvy politician who courted the favor of prominent Republicans in California and Oregon (Leland Stanford and Isaac Trumbo); and the vulnerable romantic who pursued the affections of Lydia Mountford, an international lecturer and Jewish rights advocate. He traces a faithful polygamist who ultimately embraced the Christian Home movement and settled comfortably into a monogamous relationship in an otherwise typically Victorian setting.
504 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1991
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
June 8, 2011
This biography revolves around its subtitle, "Things in Heaven and Earth." Alexander argues that in the early years of the Restoration, temporal and spiritual matters were completely intertwined; Woodruff himself consecrated all his earthly possessions and his time and energy completely to the kingdom, believing that Christ's millennial reign was imminent. Starting in the 1850s, the mundane and the spiritual in some ways began to diverge. Although the United Order was reinstituted in Utah, it was never successful or lasting. Despite being as fervent as ever spiritually, even Church leaders such as Woodruff began to pursue personal economic and political interests. This slow separation, Alexander argues, paved the way for the two most radical events of Woodruff's presidency: the manifesto and establishment of political parties in Utah. The climax of the biography, and certainly the most intriguing and well-written section of the book, comes at the end, covering these two developments. As Alexander demonstrates, these two events moved the Church into the modern era, away from a sequestered and persecuted sect and toward what it is today, a global religion.
Alexander summarizes Woodruff's place in this revolution: "Fundamentally, he was both the last of Mormondom's early prophets and the first of its modern prophets. As he abandoned the role of Mormonism as separated from -- and in contention with -- American society, he considered the church an organized body of Saints infused with personal piety and doing Christ's work, while awaiting the approach of Christ's temporally distant millennial kingdom."
The biography was well organized and researched. However, at times it felt as if I were reading an extended essay, as most of the material revolves around supporting Alexander's thesis. I felt as if many aspects of his personal life weren't given in much detail. I would be interested in reading Woodruff's history in his own words (from articles he wrote in Church periodicals or from his extensive journals).
In addition to gaining a better understanding of this volatile period in my religion's history, I also learned more about Woodruff himself. He was an avid horticulturist, even corresponding with gardeners for England's royals to exchange seeds. I'd also consider him the father of family history; driven from the time of his own conversion to bring his own family into the kingdom, at the end of his life, Woodruff clarified the way sealing ordinances were performed. Instead of being sealed to a righteous priesthood holder and family, a person should be sealed to his own father, and he to his, Woodruff taught.
Altogether, a fascinating read about one of the heroes of the Restoration. I'd recommend it!
Alexander summarizes Woodruff's place in this revolution: "Fundamentally, he was both the last of Mormondom's early prophets and the first of its modern prophets. As he abandoned the role of Mormonism as separated from -- and in contention with -- American society, he considered the church an organized body of Saints infused with personal piety and doing Christ's work, while awaiting the approach of Christ's temporally distant millennial kingdom."
The biography was well organized and researched. However, at times it felt as if I were reading an extended essay, as most of the material revolves around supporting Alexander's thesis. I felt as if many aspects of his personal life weren't given in much detail. I would be interested in reading Woodruff's history in his own words (from articles he wrote in Church periodicals or from his extensive journals).
In addition to gaining a better understanding of this volatile period in my religion's history, I also learned more about Woodruff himself. He was an avid horticulturist, even corresponding with gardeners for England's royals to exchange seeds. I'd also consider him the father of family history; driven from the time of his own conversion to bring his own family into the kingdom, at the end of his life, Woodruff clarified the way sealing ordinances were performed. Instead of being sealed to a righteous priesthood holder and family, a person should be sealed to his own father, and he to his, Woodruff taught.
Altogether, a fascinating read about one of the heroes of the Restoration. I'd recommend it!
February 17, 2018
This biography of Wilford Woodruff, fourth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was teeming with detail about the events and people surrounding Wilford Woodruff. After reading this book and placing Wilford Woodruff in context of overall church history, I agree with the author's conclusion that "[o]n balance he is arguably the third most important figure in all of LDS church history after Joseph Smith, who began Mormonism, and Brigham Young, who led the Saints to Utah and supervised the arly colonization of the intermountain west." The book's discussion of the post-Manifesto workings of the church's general leadership and shift in political philosophy was fascinating.
Although I generally found this to be an excellent book, I had two minor issues with it. First, the very detailed description of Woodruff's surroundings, at times, dwarfed the story of Woodruff himself. In other words, while the author paid significant attention to things surrounding Woodruff, he sometimes seemed to be more focused on those issues rather than on Woodruff himself.
Second, although Thomas Alexander is a first-rate scholar and historian, on a couple of occasions I believe that he declared as historical, "facts" that many scholars find to be in doubt. For instance, his rather casual declaration that the 1835 Doctrine and Covenants "explicated a doctrine of a godhead composed of the Father, who was an incorporeal spirit. . ." gives short shrift to the significant disagreement among many historians and scholars about that very issue. While I certainly would have no problem with the author making such a declaration with some explanation, the statement itself seems to be a rather bold pronouncement of historical fact when historians and scholars disagree about (1) the particular passage at issue and (2) the Latter Day Saint belief regarding that issue prior to 1835. Similar statements are made throughout the text regarding other disputed issues. However, recognizing that those facts were neither particular important or relevant to the overall story, this is a minor criticism of a fine piece of work.
Overall, I quite enjoyed this book, particularly the later chapters.
Although I generally found this to be an excellent book, I had two minor issues with it. First, the very detailed description of Woodruff's surroundings, at times, dwarfed the story of Woodruff himself. In other words, while the author paid significant attention to things surrounding Woodruff, he sometimes seemed to be more focused on those issues rather than on Woodruff himself.
Second, although Thomas Alexander is a first-rate scholar and historian, on a couple of occasions I believe that he declared as historical, "facts" that many scholars find to be in doubt. For instance, his rather casual declaration that the 1835 Doctrine and Covenants "explicated a doctrine of a godhead composed of the Father, who was an incorporeal spirit. . ." gives short shrift to the significant disagreement among many historians and scholars about that very issue. While I certainly would have no problem with the author making such a declaration with some explanation, the statement itself seems to be a rather bold pronouncement of historical fact when historians and scholars disagree about (1) the particular passage at issue and (2) the Latter Day Saint belief regarding that issue prior to 1835. Similar statements are made throughout the text regarding other disputed issues. However, recognizing that those facts were neither particular important or relevant to the overall story, this is a minor criticism of a fine piece of work.
Overall, I quite enjoyed this book, particularly the later chapters.
July 20, 2020
Well written. I take small issue with the author's insistence on the angle of the separation of temporal and spiritual issues within the Church, and some ancillary topics, like the failure of the Kirtland Safety Society, seem hastily addressed in a manner that provides an unclear explanation and too much room for incorrect conclusions.
Overall, however, I enjoyed the book and found it a thought provoking tome, particularly regarding the application of principles of revelation and the process through which God leads His church, and how mortal men are tasked with working their way along that process - combining their own limited understanding with God's guidance, timing, and divine patience.
Overall, however, I enjoyed the book and found it a thought provoking tome, particularly regarding the application of principles of revelation and the process through which God leads His church, and how mortal men are tasked with working their way along that process - combining their own limited understanding with God's guidance, timing, and divine patience.
December 29, 2021
3.75 stars.
My biggest takeaway is a reminder of something I've learned in my professional life: "Systems and consistency are sexy." Leadership by personality only works for a limited time in any organization; at some point policies and systems are required for healthy growth. I enjoy seeing this develop during Woodruff's presidency.
The first 1/3 of the book is too clean cut, simply reporting dates, facts, and journeyings. Somewhere by the halfway mark the author finds a solid voice, and the latter half is 4+ stars.
I appreciate seeing Wilford Woodruff portrayed in this biography as a "man" rather than a "seer."
My biggest takeaway is a reminder of something I've learned in my professional life: "Systems and consistency are sexy." Leadership by personality only works for a limited time in any organization; at some point policies and systems are required for healthy growth. I enjoy seeing this develop during Woodruff's presidency.
The first 1/3 of the book is too clean cut, simply reporting dates, facts, and journeyings. Somewhere by the halfway mark the author finds a solid voice, and the latter half is 4+ stars.
I appreciate seeing Wilford Woodruff portrayed in this biography as a "man" rather than a "seer."
August 12, 2025
BOOK REVIEW - Things in Heaven and Earth, The Life and Times of Wilford Woodruff , by Thomas G. Alexander (12.29.23)
Full disclosure, I know Tom Alexander. I sat with him at an MHA dinner a few times and have the highest regard for his intellect and scholarship. Things in Heaven and Earth is an absorbing and deeply human portrait of Wilford Woodruff—pioneer, missionary, prophet, and bridge between the early, persecuted LDS Church and the modern institution it would become. Far from being a distant historical figure, Woodruff emerges in these pages as a man of tireless faith, resilient optimism, and practical wisdom, forged in both the hardships of frontier life and the storms of religious persecution.
Alexander takes us from Woodruff’s humble New England beginnings—where he learned the value of work and devotion—through the grueling physical and spiritual journey west, and finally into the demanding role of Church president at a time when the very survival of the faith was at stake. His life was no smooth ascent; it was marked by illness, danger, and loss, yet also by remarkable visions, moments of divine reassurance, and courageous decisions that altered the course of LDS history.
One memorable episode finds Woodruff in the British Isles, preaching by a riverbank when a mob began hurling stones. Undeterred, he stepped into the cold water and baptized five converts while enduring the barrage. Another striking moment is his account of seeing, decades in advance, the day he would dedicate the Salt Lake Temple—a vision that guided his leadership for years until the promise was fulfilled.
Perhaps the most defining test of his leadership came in 1890, when federal pressure threatened to dismantle the Church over plural marriage. Woodruff’s decision to issue the Manifesto, ceasing the practice, was both spiritually and politically shrewd. It preserved the Church’s existence and opened the door to Utah’s statehood, marking him as a leader willing to adapt without surrendering the faith’s core.
Alexander’s biography succeeds because it captures Woodruff’s character in full—his gentleness as a friend, his endurance as a leader, and his unshakable belief that God’s hand was in the details of his life. The book is meticulously researched, yet warm and accessible, making the reader feel less like they are studying history and more like they are walking alongside a man who saw both heaven and earth in every day’s work.
Quotes:
“I walked into the water with my mind stayed on God and baptized five persons while they were pelting my body with stones… I had the spirit of God with me, and felt to rejoice that I was worthy to suffer for His name.”
“I have often thought that I never saw this people more happy than in their seasons of greatest poverty… the Holy Ghost, which they enjoyed, has been their constant companion, and they have rejoiced in the midst of their greatest privations.”
“The Lord will never permit me or any other man who stands as President of this Church to lead you astray… If I were to attempt that, the Lord would remove me out of my place.”
Full disclosure, I know Tom Alexander. I sat with him at an MHA dinner a few times and have the highest regard for his intellect and scholarship. Things in Heaven and Earth is an absorbing and deeply human portrait of Wilford Woodruff—pioneer, missionary, prophet, and bridge between the early, persecuted LDS Church and the modern institution it would become. Far from being a distant historical figure, Woodruff emerges in these pages as a man of tireless faith, resilient optimism, and practical wisdom, forged in both the hardships of frontier life and the storms of religious persecution.
Alexander takes us from Woodruff’s humble New England beginnings—where he learned the value of work and devotion—through the grueling physical and spiritual journey west, and finally into the demanding role of Church president at a time when the very survival of the faith was at stake. His life was no smooth ascent; it was marked by illness, danger, and loss, yet also by remarkable visions, moments of divine reassurance, and courageous decisions that altered the course of LDS history.
One memorable episode finds Woodruff in the British Isles, preaching by a riverbank when a mob began hurling stones. Undeterred, he stepped into the cold water and baptized five converts while enduring the barrage. Another striking moment is his account of seeing, decades in advance, the day he would dedicate the Salt Lake Temple—a vision that guided his leadership for years until the promise was fulfilled.
Perhaps the most defining test of his leadership came in 1890, when federal pressure threatened to dismantle the Church over plural marriage. Woodruff’s decision to issue the Manifesto, ceasing the practice, was both spiritually and politically shrewd. It preserved the Church’s existence and opened the door to Utah’s statehood, marking him as a leader willing to adapt without surrendering the faith’s core.
Alexander’s biography succeeds because it captures Woodruff’s character in full—his gentleness as a friend, his endurance as a leader, and his unshakable belief that God’s hand was in the details of his life. The book is meticulously researched, yet warm and accessible, making the reader feel less like they are studying history and more like they are walking alongside a man who saw both heaven and earth in every day’s work.
Quotes:
“I walked into the water with my mind stayed on God and baptized five persons while they were pelting my body with stones… I had the spirit of God with me, and felt to rejoice that I was worthy to suffer for His name.”
“I have often thought that I never saw this people more happy than in their seasons of greatest poverty… the Holy Ghost, which they enjoyed, has been their constant companion, and they have rejoiced in the midst of their greatest privations.”
“The Lord will never permit me or any other man who stands as President of this Church to lead you astray… If I were to attempt that, the Lord would remove me out of my place.”
October 6, 2015
I went into this book expecting it to be a review of events from church history that I already knew, but I actually learned quite a bit. What I thought I knew about Utah's participation in political parties and how the church changed from predominately Democrat to predominately Republican was completely wrong. And I never knew about the contention within the quorum of the 12 regarding politics. I had never even heard of Moses Thatcher, whose story is a tragic one. I knew about Pres. Woodruff's change of the practice of adoptive sealings, but I did not know it occurred so late in his life. These are just a few of the things that I learned from this book. My only complaint is that the book is rather repetitive -- probably because some of the chapters appear to have appeared first in scholarly journals.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to know about the Mormon church's social, political, and theological transition from the late 1800's to the early 1900's.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to know about the Mormon church's social, political, and theological transition from the late 1800's to the early 1900's.
February 10, 2010
The bottom line on this book is the structure of the book seemed too often convoluted and the narrative was bordering on unreadable. I had some freinds that had Thomas Alexander as a college professer but this book does not do Wilford Woodruff's interesting life story justice.
December 5, 2010
Pretty interesting content...but tough to read. Amazing man with an amazing life.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews