Included in this lot is the rare book, "Mormonism Unveiled, or The Life And Confessions of the late Mormon Bishop, John D. Lee (Written by Himself), Embracing A History Of Mormonism From Its Inception Down To The Present Time, With An Exposition Of The Secret History, Signs, Symbols And Crimes Of The Mormon Church. Also The True History Of The Horrible Butchery Known As The Mountain Meadows Massacre",illustrated and published by Bryan, Brand & Company 1877. This autobiography was written while the author was in prison awaiting execution for his part in the Mountain Meadows Massacre. Mormonism Unveiled is John Doyle Lee's confessional exposé of malpractices in the Mormon Church, including his own role as an assassin responsible for several murders. In chronicling his years as a member of the church, Lee discusses how he came to meet and associate with Joseph Smith: the founder and prophet of Mormonism. The processes by which the charismatic Smith drew in followers is catalogued. Personal habits, including the notorious practice of polygamy where he would take multiple wives, are mentioned. Lee himself partook enthusiastically in polygamy, taking a total of 19 wives and siring some 56 children. After Joseph Smith's death at the hands of an angry mob in 1844, Brigham Young assumed control of the Mormon Church. It was under Young that several of the most controversial schemes associated with Mormonism entailed. For his part John D. Lee became an enforcer, carrying out orders from Brigham Young in appropriating belongings of fellow Mormons, such as cattle from impoverished ranchers. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. Book is in fair to good condition, all pages show foxing, last two pages are torn, rust cloth hardcover, black and gilt gold stamped/embossed, rear cover is detached, front cover is partially detached, illustrated text. Measures 8.75"H x 5.75"W x 1.5"D