Lincoln and the Mormons

[L Verge]

I have finally decided to clear the historic cobwebs from the old cranium and read a historical/modern spy thriller, The Lincoln Myth by Steve Berry. I am thoroughly enjoying it, but realize that I know very little about the Mormon faith other than the polygamy subject and the travails that the sect encountered trying to find the proper home.

One of the states that gave them a hard time was Illinois, and I am now wondering if Lincoln ever had any contact with Joseph Smith and his followers over their years there. I think it would have been during the time that Lincoln was shaping his political future. I also vaguely remember Lincoln courting their support in Utah during the Civil War.

I'm not that far into this book yet, so my questions may be answered later on - and I'm sure that I can google and get plenty of information, but I like to see us share our knowledge on this forum to benefit others. Will somebody address the issue of Lincoln and the Mormons to teach this old teacher?