The purpose of this study has been to write a biography on the life of the versatile William Wines Phelps in conjunction with his contributions to and influence on the issues and problems of Mormon Pioneer History from Kirtland, Ohio, to the Great Basin.Prior to the year 1831, W.W. Phelps was active in the State of New York as an Anti-Masonic newspaper editor. The Anti-Masonic movement had grown out of the political enviornment that existed throughout the nation and especially in the State of New York during that period of time.During the year of 1831, W.W. Phelps completely abandoned the cause of Anti-Masonry to accept "Mormonism." As a result, when Joseph Smith, W.W. Phelps and others arrived in Missouri, Phelps was called to be the first Mormon editor-publisher, bringing with him the same enthusiasm and skill to the cause of Mormonism.