When Joseph Smith was Killed, his Church Fell Apart

This period in Mormon history has not been documented very well, because the situation was so chaotic. Many things were happening in many places.

Many church members spent the winter in Iowa, in a place called Winter Camp. And it was here that Brigham Young (who, as the President of the Quorum of 12 was on a mission in England) caught up with them and became the new church leader.

And continued their journey across the Rocky Mountains to settle on the shores of the Great Salt Lake. They were leaving the US forever. And Brigham Young was a capable leader.

Joseph Smith's wife, Emma, was not part of this Movement, but remained in Nauvoo, with her sons. This was not smart of her, and she never taught her sons about the many events (including polygamy) that had happened when her husband was still alive.

Eventually, her sons became part of the RLDS church, the second-largest Mormon church.