My Journey to Understand... Black Hawk's Mission of Peace
PHILLIP B GOTTFREDSON Author & Historian
Author Phillip B Gottfredson with Gary Lee Price renowned sculptor of Timpanogos Chief Wakara Author Phillip B Gottfredson wrote, "When the world was created, Creator touched it with his hand, and so it is sacred and spiritual. The Land is our home, our mother, nourishing all her children. The Land is sacred and belongs to all who inhabit it."
After two decades of research, Gottfredson published *My Journey to Understand Black Hawk's Mission of Peace*, offering a unique perspective on Native Americans and the Utah Black Hawk War by emphasizing Indigenous viewpoints. He explains why "Native American culture is a perfect example of total spirituality without religion."
"Elders from the Shoshone and many Tribes, the Timpanogos, Apache, Yurok, Shoshoni, and Maya, graciously invited me to participate in numerous sacred ceremonies, which were transformative experiences. These spiritual moments I share were personal and humbling, transforming my understanding of what it means to be human and for us to honor our sacred connection to Mother Earth and all living things. Elders asked me to teach my people what they taught me., saying, 'they will listen to you because you are white.' I will always honor my promise."
Unfortunately, scholars, historians, and writers often overlook the enduring message of Indigenous America, which emphasizes 'connection, relationship, and unity.' The historical narrative of the Utah Black Hawk War serves as a potent reminder that early colonizers had very little respect for the idea that we are all one and that all are direct descendants of our Creator.
There can be no doubt that this was Timpanogos Chief Black Hawk's message when he made his last ride home to pass out of this world in peace. In the final days of his life, Chief Black Hawk made an agonizing hundred-and-eight-mile journey by horseback, pleading with Mormon settlers to end the bloodshed of his people and live in peace. You don't see the settlers doing this; This heroic journey was Black Hawk's 'mission of peace.' Still, blinded by their arrogance, colonists couldn't grasp what it meant to be human.
"I am deeply grateful to the Timpanogos Nation, as well as the Hopi, Zuni, Pueblo, Apache, Shoshone, Arapaho, Lakota, Siletz, Makah, Southern Paiute, Northern Paiute, Yurok, Anishinaabe, Cherokee, Choctaw, Inca, and Mayan communities of San Pedro, Guatemala. Thank you for sharing your sacred lifeways, which have led to a profound transformation in my life. The impact of the stories and teachings from these Indigenous tribes has been truly invaluable in deepening my understanding of the Timpanogos and the man they referred to as Black Hawk."
The State of Utah has recognized Phillip Gottfredson for his outstanding efforts in understanding and valuing Indigenous cultures. In 2008, the Utah Division of Indian Affairs awarded Phillip the Indigenous Day Award for his exceptional contributions, a testament to the significance of his work.
Phillip was a guest on Sunstone Mormon History Podcast in 2024, and with Mary Murdock Meyer Chief Executive of the Timpanogos Nation on Radio Free Mormon Podcast April 30th of 2025. He is a historian for the Timpanogos Nation. Gottfredson is a mentor to Professor John Perry Christensen Historian of American History University of Utah, and Utah State University. See Phillip B Gottfredson Biography
"Phillip has touched the lives of many..." Five-Star reviews!
"Mr. Gottfredson has done an amazing job of telling this story with passion and honesty. As you follow him through his journey of discovery, you will be captivated by his experiences. Bravo, Sir !" -Barely Ablemann, Washington DC
"Thank you for sharing your journey so openly. You’ve shared a part of your heart and I’m very grateful to have felt it. I connected with it on a lot of levels and I truly felt like I was meant to read this book, at this very moment in time." -David White
"My Journey to Understand ... Black Hawk's Mission of Peace grabbed me! The way you understand the Black Hawk War will change with Phillip B Gottfredson's detailed account, which brings the Timpanogos perspective to light—a viewpoint long overshadowed in history books. Through decades of living among First Nations people, Gottfredson shares insights from his spiritual journey and collaboration with tribal leaders. He uncovers the resilience and humanity of Timpanogos leader Black Hawk, who sought peace even in the face of devastation. This book offers more than history—it’s a powerful reflection on forgiveness, equality, and the sacred connection between humanity and the Earth. — that’s masterful storytelling." - James Timothy
"This account is critical to understanding history from more than one perspective. This book brings light and knowledge to history that has been absent since the colonization of the United States." -J. Ferguson
"I finished reading your YOUR UNBELIEVABLE BOOK your experiences blew me away and I love how you dovetailed your views & everything so beautifully together!!! WOW WOW WOWWW!!!" - Gary Lee Price
"I am not exaggerating when I say that this book has changed my life. I can't recommend it enough". -Stephanie T Lundeen
"Diana and I have just finished reading a book that is told from the long forgotten Timpanogos Nation by Phil Gottfredson or Mr. Phil. My heart heaved. And the tears flowed from both our eyes as we heard the Indian version and their stories. This book ranks in the top 5 of all the hundreds of books that I have ever read in my life...and I have read hundreds if not thousands. Please purchase a copy of this book and read it. Truth matters. - Larry Ballard, Utah
"Wow... where do I start? I am grateful I read this book. I am grateful for the Author who wrote this book. I will be buying more copies to give away, and for sure recommending this book to as many will listen. 5-Stars" - Marcus Hadlock, Utah
Get on board with... My journey to understand...
Black Hawk's Mission of Peace!
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Copyright: 2019
Buy my great-granpa's book too...
Indian Depredations in Utah
by Peter Gottfredson 1919
Phillip B Gottfredson's quest for truth began with his great-grandfather Peter Gottfredson's classic history, "Indian Depredations in Utah." A
cornerstone in the annals of Utah's history. This book, a firsthand tell-all account of Brigham Young's extermination of the Timpanogos Nation, holds a special place in Phillip's heart. It offers a vital perspective on early settlement in the Great Basin and the devastating consequences of settler colonialism from the perspective of Mormon settlers.
Peter Gottfredson's "Indian Depredations in Utah," published in 1919, and Phillip B Gottfredson's "My Journey to Understand Black Hawk's Mission of Peace," published in 2019, are companion books.
5-star Reviews! "Peter Gottfredson's Indian Depredations in Utah is a classic firsthand account of the Black Hawk War in Utah. I highly recomend this account to anyone." -Benson Littlefield
"A very interesting book. Even though I live in Utah, and am somewhat of a history buff, this book tells a lot more about the Indians in Utah than I ever knew. It was worth my time to read it." -Ken in Riverton
Don't let the voices of the past go unheard. Purchase your copy now !!
