“He having formerly been a Methodist minister, commenced preaching the Gospel without purse or script, and he did so until he found, (using a common expression,) it did not pay.” — George A. Smith1
Ezra Booth was born on February 14, 1792, in Newtown, Fairfield County, Connecticut.2 A former minister, he joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints after witnessing Joseph Smith heal a woman's paralyzed arm.2 However, his initial enthusiasm waned during a mission to Missouri. Disappointed by the undeveloped area and the small number of converts, Booth began to question Joseph Smith's prophetic gifts.3
The journey back to Kirtland, Ohio, further strained Booth's faith. During a difficult canoe trip on the Missouri River, he grew critical of Joseph Smith and other Church elders, questioning why the Lord would entrust the keys of His kingdom to them.4 Upon returning to Kirtland, Booth openly criticized Joseph Smith.5
Booth's discontent culminated in a series of scathing letters published in a local newspaper, The Ohio Star,6 accusing Joseph Smith of making false prophecies and hiding revelations from the public.7 These letters were widely read and contributed to growing wariness among the Saints' neighbors, raising questions and doubts within the community.8 After his break from the Church, Booth first returned to Methodism but then became involved with the Millerite Movement.9
