The Troost Park Monument marks the first log schoolhouse/church built in Jackson County Missouri. On August 2, 1831 the Prophet Joseph Smith assisted the Colesville Saints in laying the foundation, placing the first log for the foundation of the school/church and also the start of building Zion in Missouri.
A ten inch oak tree was cut and carried by twelve men, symbolizing the Twelve Tribes of Israel.
The original marker says:
“School in Zion. On August 2, 1831, the Prophet Joseph Smith was assisted by the members of the Colesville Branch of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and others in laying the log for the first house as a foundation of Zion in Kaw Township. The log was carried and placed by twelve men representing the twelve tribes of Israel. The house, a place of worship, was also used as a school and was the first school to be erected within the boundaries of Kansas City, Missouri, as they existed in 1832. Unveiling and Dedication September 14, 1963 by President David O. McKay The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.”
The men who participated in building the foundation of the log cabin were: Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery, Sidney Rigdon, Hezekiah Peck, Ezekiel Peck, Joseph Knight Sr., Aaron Culver, Ezra Booth, Freeborn Demill, William Stringham, and Ira Willis.
The marker was dedicated by Joseph Fielding Smith. In 2000, a restored marker was dedicated.
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