Joseph Knight Sr. Provisions the Translation Work at Harmony (1829)

During the winter of 1828–1829, while Joseph Smith and his wife Emma were residing in Harmony, Pennsylvania, they faced severe financial hardship that threatened to halt the translation of the Book of Mormon. Joseph Knight Sr., a close friend and early benefactor from Colesville, New York, had previously employed Joseph Smith and remained a steadfast supporter of the prophetic work. When Joseph and Oliver Cowdery were nearing the end of their resources, they set out to seek work for provisions, but were unsuccessful. Upon returning to their home, they found Joseph Knight Sr. waiting for them with the supplies they desperately needed. Knight, who had traveled from Colesville to visit, had learned of the Prophet's situation from his family after returning home from business in Catskill. He immediately procured and delivered a barrel of mackerel, a quantity of lined writing paper, nine or ten bushels of grain, five or six bushels of potatoes, and a pound of tea. This timely intervention provided the sustenance necessary for Joseph and Oliver to complete the translation of the Book of Mormon. Joseph Smith later reflected on Knight's character, noting he was among the first to administer to his necessities and was a man who remained faithful and true throughout his life.

Fuller account of this event (in the witness’s own words):

And when I came home I Bought some nine or ten Bushels of grain and five or six Bushels taters and a pound of tea, and I went Down to see him and they ware in want. Joseph and Oliver ware gone to see if they Could find a place to work for provisions, But found none. They returned home and found me there with provisions, and they ware glad for they ware out. Their familey Consisted of four, Joseph and wife, Oliver and his Brother Samuel. Then they went to work and had provisions enough to Last till the translation was Done.