More than thirty years ago an 1830 first edition copy of the Book of Mormon came into my possession. I have treasured it all these years, but rather than keep it hidden away where no one else could see it, or keep it encased in glass where no one could handle it, I often brought it out for others to see and hold. It has stirred the hearts of all who have turned its pages, especially young people.
     The book was one of only 5000 printed in 1830 by the Grandin Press in Palmyra, New York. There are only a few still in existence. I wish I knew who first owned my copy, and through whose hands it passed during those 140 years before I became its custodian. Surely if it could speak it would tell me of being a divine instrument in dozens of conversions, hundreds of sermons, and countless hours of prayerful pondering; of being carried to other lands in missionary hands or transported across the plains in a covered wagon or handcart. Its real history, though unknown, must certainly be rich and varied.
     Although its service has been long and inspiring, its cover has become badly worn with nearly constant use, and its binding has deteriorated until the book can no longer be used for study. Its original purpose has long since come to and end, but I have a vision of it continuing its inspirational journey in a way that more people can experience its remarkable influence as a messenger of truth.
     I have discussed the book's future with experts at the Smithsonian Institute and the National Museum of Art, and after careful consideration I have determined to have the pages unbound and individually mounted in free-standing double-face frames so that both sides can be viewed.
     The accompanying View Heirloom Page captures accurately how each page will be framed for display. The frame will be constructed of rare and beautiful purple heart hardwood, carefully hand-crafted by one of America's most skilled craftsmen. The pages will be mounted between museum-quality mat boards and special ultraviolet-screening glass panels to protect them for another 100 years. The top of the frame will be decorated with 14k gold filigree corners featuring the Angel Moroni in bas relief. Each page will be identified with two signatures of authenticity.
     You are among a small list of acquaintances I am sending this letter to. I wish to give you the opportunity to reserve your favorite scripture page before I make a general offering to the public. Please forgive me for reserving the title page and the witnesses page for myself at this time. The remaining 293 two-page leaves are all available as of the date of this letter, but I expect that those containing long-time favorite passages will be reserved very quickly. The earliest phone call or postmark will be honored for any scripture request.
     Keep in mind that this original edition of the Book of Mormon was not divided into verses as were subsequent editions, nor do page numbers correspond with contemporary printings. It will therefore be necessary to reserve your favorite passage by identifying the book, chapter, and verse(s) from a modern version and I will match it to the corresponding page in my original copy. The accompanying reservation form shows the scriptures that have been designated as premium passages and their subscription prices.
     If you would like to participate in this one-time Book of Mormon page offering, you may mail the enclosed Premium Page Reservation Form along with a check or money order for the amount of the reservation fee; or you can reserve using a credit card. For quicker confirmation of you favorite scripture page, you may call me direct at 1-480-983-3438. Orders will be ready to ship as soon as the gold corners are completed, at which time you will be notified and the remaining subscription balance will be due.
     Your favorite passage from the Book of Mormon will become a valuable treasure that is certain to inspire all who see it, and build testimonies among your own family members for generations to come. If you have close friends you think might also like to share in this offer, you're welcome to invite them to participate.

Yours respectfully,

Helen Spencer Schlie