Book of Mormon Bicentennial 2030
Commemorating 200 years of the Book of Mormon and its influence on Lamoni's heritage
A Significant Milestone
2030 marks the 200th anniversary of the Book of Mormon's publication and its profound impact on our community's founding
Historical Significance
The Book of Mormon, first published in 1830, played a central role in the religious and cultural foundation of Lamoni. The Community of Christ (originally the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) established Lamoni as a gathering place, and the book's teachings influenced the community's approach to education, cooperation, and social justice.
Understanding this historical context is essential to appreciating Lamoni's unique character and the principles that guided its development as a planned community in the late 19th century.
Community Impact
The bicentennial commemoration provides an opportunity to explore how religious heritage intersected with community development, educational innovation, and social progress in Lamoni. This project examines the book's influence on local institutions, cultural practices, and community values.
Our approach respects diverse perspectives while acknowledging this important element of our town's historical foundation and its continuing influence on community identity.
Heritage Exploration Projects
Research and educational initiatives examining the intersection of faith, community, and history
Historical Documentation Project
Comprehensive documentation of early Lamoni settlers, their motivations, and the role of religious conviction in community planning. Includes oral histories, document preservation, and genealogical research.
Share Your StoryEducational Symposium Series
Scholarly lectures and community discussions examining the historical, cultural, and social dimensions of religious influence on American community development, with Lamoni as a case study.
Register for LecturesInterfaith Dialogue Initiative
Conversations exploring how diverse faith traditions contribute to community strength, social justice, and mutual understanding. Celebrating religious diversity while honoring our historical foundations.
Join ConversationsResearch & Participation
Contribute to this important examination of faith, history, and community development
Academic Collaboration
Partner with historians, theologians, and community scholars to ensure comprehensive and balanced examination of this significant historical milestone.
- Historical research support
- Academic partnership opportunities
- Documentation and archival projects
- Publication and presentation support
Community Participation
Join discussions, share family histories, and participate in educational programs that explore our community's religious heritage and its continuing influence.
- Family history sharing
- Community discussion groups
- Educational program participation
- Volunteer research assistance
Project Leadership
Academic and community leaders guiding this historical examination
Dr. Patricia Reynolds
Professor Emeritus of American Religious History at Graceland University. Specializes in 19th-century American religious movements and community development.
Contact: preynolds@lamonihistory.org
Elder David Kim
Community of Christ minister and community liaison, facilitating respectful dialogue between various faith communities and historical research efforts.
Contact: dkim@lamonihistory.org
Dr. Michael Chen
Associate Professor of American Studies, focusing on the intersection of religion, community planning, and social development in the Midwest.
Contact: mchen@lamonihistory.org
Resources & Timeline
Key Research Resources
Access to significant historical collections and archives supporting this research initiative:
- Community of Christ Archives: Original documents and records
- Graceland University Library: Academic resources and special collections
- LHA Historical Archives: Local community records and family histories
- Iowa State Historical Society: Regional context and comparative materials
Publication Goals
Research findings will be published in accessible formats including academic papers, community booklets, and educational materials for schools and community organizations.
Project Timeline
2024-2025: Research foundation and community engagement
2026-2027: Intensive research and documentation phase
2028-2029: Analysis, writing, and community education programs
2030: Bicentennial commemoration events and publication release
Community Meetings
When: Third Thursday monthly at 6:30 PM
Where: Graceland University Community Room
Next Meeting: December 21, 2024