“Nevertheless, let the bishop go unto the city of New York, also to the city of Albany, and also to the city of Boston, and warn the people of those cities with the sound of the gospel, with a loud voice, of the desolation and utter abolishment which await them if they do reject these things.” — Doctrine and Covenants 841
In fall 1832, Joseph Smith left for a mission to New York City alongside Newel K. Whitney, a prominent Church member and businessman, to preach the gospel and to make purchases for the Saints.2 In addition to New York, the pair also traveled to Albany and Boston.3
Upon arriving in New York City, Joseph was struck by its vastness and bustling activity, with its tall buildings, diverse population, and evident wealth. But despite the city's impressive advancements, he was disheartened when the people of New York didn‘t seem to care about spiritual matters.4
The history of New York City dates back to its founding as the Dutch town of New Amsterdam. The city's harbor facilitated its economic growth, making it the largest city in the American colonies by the time of the American Revolution. After serving briefly as the U.S. capital in the late eighteenth century, its population continued to grow rapidly, reaching about 200,000 by 1830.5
