Did the Book of Mormon take place in America’s “Heartland?”  From the Garden of Eden to Adam-ondi-Ahman; from the restoration of the gospel to the building of the New Jerusalem – the Heartland of North America has been the setting for sacred and significant events throughout human history. 

New research involving Book of Mormon prophecies, Joseph Smith’s historical writings, DNA, archaeology, anthropology, metallurgy, horticulture, climate indicators, voyage routes, geography, astronomy, and symbology point to the very real possibility that the people and places of the Book of Mormon occurred in the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys.   

Secular evidence continues to mount that the Book of Mormon may have occurred in the Heartland of North America.   This new research Is offering unprecedented answers to critics of the Book of Mormon and its coming forth from non-LDS sources.  Learn more about why this research is so compelling. 

Below are links to recent news and articles exploring what is now being called “The Heartland Model Geography” for the Book of Mormon. You can also access our latest newsletters by visiting the ARCHIVE.

The Scriptural Basis for the Heartland Model Geography

Heartland Model Declared a "Movement" by Univ. of Chicago

Hebrew Written Language CONFIRMED in Hopewell Mound in Tennessee!

The Mississippi; Could it have been River Sidon?

Podcast by LDS Liberty (listen to the interview!)

Best Evidence for the Book of Mormon by Allen Rock Waterman

Central America or North America?  posting by Denver Snuffer

The Remnant; a posting by Denver Snuffer

Lehi's Voyage Demonstrated; The Phoenicia Expedition

Review of Prophecies & Promises by Jake Freeman of Telemoonfa Time

For the past 4 years the Heartland Model Geography for the Book of Mormon has endured relentless attacks from individuals and organizations promoting Mesoamerica as its setting. They have done so in a concerted effort to discourage members of the Church from reviewing this research for themselves, knowing that the vast majority of those who do feel that this geography model "just makes sense."  Too often, their articles are misleading, incorrect and/or uninformed attacks against the Heartland Book of Mormon geography model. Below are a few responses to our critics. We appreciate the time and effort by others to help us improve our research, but personal attacks questioning the character, motives and intelligence of other faithful members of the Church are unwarranted, contentious and unChrist-like. Our goal in addressing a few of these critics is to demonstrate that the Heartland Model has the ability to answer many questions and defend the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon as never before. This is not to say that the Heartland model answers every question, but that it offers a real possibility of presenting cogent, straight-forward answers to many previously unanswered questions. We hope you find the following articles of help in determining for yourself the strengths of differing thoughts and ideas regarding Book of Mormon geography. No matter "where" it happened, we testify "that" it happened...that it is a genuine ancient history of real people, places and things. 

Did Joseph Smith Identify Zarahemla in Guatemala?

Reply to Jay Osmond’s “Friendly Critic”

Reply to a Misleading New Years Article

Reply to Meridian Magazine article, Mesoamerican or Heartland Model: Only One Right?

LDS Freedom Forum; Rod Meldrum Defends Book of Mormon; The Packham Debate

LDS Freedom Forum: Book of Mormon Setting in North America blog

Interview at Manti Pageant with Aaron Shafovaloff of Mormon Research Ministry

Reply to Deseret News article, Pros, Cons of Book of Mormon Geography Theories

LDS Freedom Forum blog; DNA Evidence for Book of Mormon Geography

Is Izapa Stella #5 the Story of Lehi's Dream?  An Improved Interpretation Suggests it is Not

Watch the 30 second ad shown on KSL-TV during the Spring 2012 General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints! 

The 9th Semi-Annual National Book of Mormon Evidence Conference was a wonderfully "Hebraic" experience with more attendee's, more excitement, and more evidences than ever before, with a focus on ancient Hebrew symbolism's among the Hopewell/Nephite civilization!  Originally planned for 200 participants, the venue had to be reconfigured and expanded three times to accommodate the overwhelming 420 registered attendee's crowding into the South Towne Exposition Center's large halls. Notable attendee's included Alan & Suzanne Osmond, Sister Mary Ellen Smoot (former Relief Society General President), Dr. Robert Fuller, Idaho Senator Lee Heider, Dr. Bruce Widner, Dr. Lincoln Fuqua, Bill & Kathrine Engemann, Larry Ferguson,  and many more.  Attendee's came to the conference from the distant lands of Russia, Netherlands and Canada as well as throughout the United States!  Special thanks to Rocky Mountain Audio/Visual from Boise, ID and Computerwise from Logan, UT for their help in recording portions of the conference via Tricastor technologies.

Attendee's were surprised by a non-announced performance of The Little Big Band who were able to adjust their busy recording and rehersing schedule to make an appearance just days before their debut performance with Mormon pop-star artist Alex Boye, BYU's Synthesis jazz band and a the string section of the BYU Philharmonic Orchestra.  Little Big Bands father-son duo, Hugh Jones Sr. and Jr., have an unforgetable "Frank Sinatra" sound that harkens back to the 60's and they performed several times during the conference.  

Conference presentations included:

- further research by Steven Smoot as a followup to the documentary The Lost Civilizations of North America and the announcement of his forthcoming new book!

- an introduction to the miraculous events surrounding the keeper of Joseph Smith's Sword, Howard Carlos Smith, and his new book, Joseph Smith's Sword; And In That Day...Miracles & Warnings

- Ancient American publisher Wayne N. May presented impressive new material on Nephite/Hopewell forts and temples with evidence for defensive purposes at Ohio's Fort Ancient and astounding new evidence for Hopewell/Nephite connections pertaining to their temple "mounts" having ramps and not stairs/steps, as were prohibited by Hebrew custom and scripture (Exodus 20:26 which states, "Neither shalt thou go up by steps unto mine altar..."  Later he shared incredible new research on the Adena/Jaredite connections in the Heartland of America. 

- Jewish Symbolism expert Amberli Nelson presented one of the most compelling evidences yet for the Heartland Model Book of Mormon geography.  She outlined 10 things that would indicate whether a civilization was practicing the Laws of Moses as were the Nephites according to the Book of Mormon text.  People abiding the Law of Moses would necessarily have items such as sheep (for Passover sacrifices), goats, grapes, barley, wheat, a 7-day week, lunar-based calendar, etc., all of which have been archaeologically verified among the Hopewell civilization, but none are known among the Maya civilization in Mesoamerica. She points out that the Lord does not accept substitutes and therefore it is implausible for the Maya to have been the Nephites of the Book of Mormon, since they demonstrate no signs of practicing the Law of Moses in their civilization. 

- Timothy Ballard presented a synopsis of his powerful new research indicating that the establishment of the United States of America as the covenant land of the House of Israel was known and understood by those who founded this nation, and that through their understanding they assisted in creating the most powerful nation on earth which was destined to be the base for the restoration of the Lord Jesus Christ's gospel in the latter days and its fulfillment of prophecy to the Israelite nation. He discussed his two new books, The American Covenant: One Nation Under God, Vol. 1 and 2.   

- Rod L. Meldrum presented new research demonstrating Hebrew influences in the Hopewell Mound Builder civilization artifacts and ruins.  A detailed study of the earthworks at Newark, Ohio show their ancient understanding of the entire "plan of salvation".  He then presented an overview and update of the Heartland Book of Mormon research project and how fast it is growing and developing.  A portion of his presentation included a new childrens animation about the Zelph accounts and a new website supportive of the Heartland Model geography research developed by the James Stoddard family.  In addition, he introduced a new focus on teaching the youth the evidences of the Book of Mormon in the Heartland and finally he unveiled the very first television advertisement ever aired on the Heartland Model geography.  The 30-second ad, which began showing the following day (Saturday) during the Church's General Conference and ran through Sunday, was the first broadcast by KSL-TV ever for this research and it drew thousands of visits to the websites. 

Following the conference Little Big Band performed with Alex Boye at BYU.  After the show we learned that Alex Boye is a fellow "Heartlander" and has been watching the Book of Mormon Evidence DVD series with his family!  His latest music video, featuring Alex singing with John Schmidt on the Grand Piano perched atop the red rock cliffs of St. George, Utah is absolutely breathtakingly spectacular!  Watch the video HERE! 

After the BYU concert, pictured above: Rod Meldrum, Hugh Jones Sr, Ray Smith, Alex Boye, drummer unknown), Hugh Jones Jr., Carl Bacon

Join us for an unforgettable tour of a lifetime!  Be one of the first to experienced the ultimate in LDS educational touring.  You will experience the powerful and sacred evidences of the Book of Mormon in America's Heartland, visiting museums with headplates and breastplates along with exploring the earthworks possibly erected by Captain Moroni for this once mighty people.  If you've wanted to really experience Church history sites like never before, join us on our Fall Splendor tour in October at the height of the autumn colors.  The combination of Church history and Book of Mormon history on the same sacred lands is like taking two tours in one! 

Tour member Patti Wilcox wrote of her tour,

"I have been on a lot of wonderful tours, but this beats any experience. It was an absolute banquet of delights. I was fed spiritually, physically, socially, intellectually, and emotionally. I have come away from this experience changed and enlivened."

Your tour gives you insights into Church history and Book of Mormon history you never dreamed possible. These are the most comprehensive and all-inclusive tours available. Read what other tour members are saying about their experience by clicking HERE.  Book of Mormon geography researcher Rod L. Meldrum has teamed with Legacy Tours and Travel to offer these incredible opportunities to learn about and experience these sacred sites.

New for 2012!  There has been overwhelming response to the comprehensive two week combination tour, however, many latter-day saints have already had the chance to visit the majority of Church history sites and have asked if we could offer a tour that concentrates and focuses on the Book of Mormon related sites and would not require two weeks.  We have listened and are for the first time offering two very special tours of the proposed Book of Mormon sites in America's Heartland.  These 7 day tours utilize the weekends so that only one week is needed from work!  This is much easier for those who are working full time, plus the tour is considerably less expensive.  We are very excited to take you to the museums and locations where you can see for yourself the ancient headplates, breastplates, earthen walls and burial mounds of the Hopewell Mound builder civilization that flourished in this sacred land during Book of Mormon time frames. 

 Join our expert hosts on these incredible tours!

Rod Meldrum (Book of Mormon DNA researcher, lecturer and author), Elder Hartman Rector Jr. (Emeritus General Authority), Wayne N. May (publisher of Ancient American Magazine, author) Kay Godfrey (Joseph Smith epoch historian, see his website and biography HERE ), along with travel experts Mark and Jill Clifford.

May    4 - 14    11 Day Tour of Israel with Rod L. Meldrum & Kay Godfrey!

June   3 - 9       7 Day Tour of Book of Mormon lands with Rod L. Meldrum, Wayne May

                          plus Alan & Suzanne Osmond!

Sept.   2 - 8       7 Day Tour of Book of Mormon lands with Rod L. Meldrum & Wayne May!

Oct.     8 - 20   13 Day Tour of Church History and Book of Mormon lands with

                         Rod L. Meldrum & Kay Godfrey!

 For all the information click HERE or call Legacy Tours and Travel directly at 877-221-5161 (Toll Free) or 801-683-0123

For more than three years the single most requested educational item, to learn more about and share this information, has been a large format, high-quality picture book.  Finally, author and researcher Rod L. Meldrum has created the first 200+ page heirloom quality photographic journey of discovery into the exciting new "Heartland Model" geography!  It is titled Exploring The Book of Mormon In America's Heartland - A Visual Journey of Discovery.

Over 300 stunningly beautiful and informational photographs combine with research, quotes, stories, artifacts, maps and scripture to make this the ultimate book on the Heartland Model. Enjoy some of the book pages by clicking on the PHOTO GALLERY page HERE.

"From Adam-ondi-Ahman to the City of Enoch; from the restoration of the Gospel to building of the New Jerusalem in the latter-days—the “Heartland” of America has been the setting of sacred and significant events throughout human history. This photographic book introduces the growing body of evidence that suggests the very real possibility of a North American setting for The Book of Mormon.

Thirty-six scriptural prophecies and promises alternate between descriptions of the ancient Nephite land and a latter-day “Promised Land.” Following that premise, readers will carefully examine statements by the Prophet Joseph Smith regarding his views on Book of Mormon geography.

Newly emerging scientific information strengthens the assertion that large agrarian societies once flourished in North America at precisely the times of the Jaredite and Nephite cultures. This research, conducted primarily by non-LDS scientists, is revealing a remarkable panorama of culture, achievement and destruction among these ancient peoples. 

The research here compiled spans the scope of archaeology, anthropology, architecture, fortifications, trade, religion, metallurgy, DNA, horticulture, transportation–by sea and by land, geographic topologies, building materials, astronomical alignments, mythology and much more."

This visually compelling new book is only $34.95. Compare with other books of similar quality at $40-$60.  To purchase, go to the BOOKSTORE. 

 The semiannual National Book of Mormon Evidence Conference was held May 13 and 14th at the Tahitian Noni International Visitors Center and Gardens in Provo, Utah.  Many enjoyed lunch under the pavillion in their lush spring gardens. 

Speakers included Rod L. Meldrum, Wayne N. May, Roger K. Young, and Timothy Ballard who presented their latest research and exciting new information. The conference was video recorded and we are in the process of editing and preparing the presentations for distribution on DVD and internet.  Stay tuned for more information about the release of these videos.  They are incredibly powerful new witnesses to the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon.         

Due to overwhelming demand, we have brought back this groundbreaking DVD that started it all!  DNA Evidence for Book of Mormon Geography is the powerful introduction to what has become recognized as the "Heartland Model" geography that has caused a "swelling movement" within Church membership.  Over 4 hours of information will help you learn why the Book of Mormon may have occurred right in America's heartland!  Order yours today by going to the Bookstore. 

Utah Governor Gary R. Herbert signed a proclamation declaring the entire month of September 2010 as “Roots of Freedom Month” in honor of George Washington’s statment that one of our nation’s primary objectives should be “the education of our youth in the science of government.”  America’s Freedom Education Week was the fitting culmination of this month’s activities!   

 The finest educators and speakers in our great nation came together on many critically important topics, such as:

* our inspired Founding Fathers

* the establishment of a free nation governed by its people

* the epic bravery of those who fought to retain liberty

* the fundamental importance of the Constitution and Bill of Rights to human freedom

* the role of the United States of America in world history and ancient prophecy

* acknowledgement of God’s hand in the formation of this nation

* the role of Native American’s in its representative form of government

* the critical importance of upholding, honoring and defending these sacred documents

* and how, through education, we can restore honor and patriotism, faith and charity, for a renewed sense of hope for our country!

Included were the most authoritative, powerful and influential leaders and impassioned speakers on these subjects ever assembled into one week-long event!

1.    David Buckner – Glenn Beck's American Revival Tour speaker and nationally recognized Economist of Fox News

2.    Lt. Governor Greg Bell – Lieutenant Governor for the State of Utah

3.    Mike Lee – United States Senatorial Candidate for Republican Party of Utah

4.    Earl Taylor Jr. - President of the National Center for Constitutional Studies

5.    Dr. Glenn Kimber - President of the Thomas Jefferson Center for Constitutional Studies

6.    Howard J. Ruff – Financial Advisor, Author and Economist

7.    Andrew Biggs – Constitutional Attorney, Arizona State Senator – Co-author of Immigration Bill 1070

8.    Scott N. Bradley - Constitutional author and educator, Senatorial Candidate for the Constitution Party

9.    Jerome Horowitz - Constitutional Attorney and author of The Elders of Israel and the Constitution

10.  Scott Swain - President, Roots of Freedom

11.  Rod L. Meldrum - Author and Researcher, co-author of Prophecies and Promises

12.  Jon McNaughton –LDS Artist and painter of One Nation Under God

13.  Chris Stewart – Author of 7 Miracles that Saved America and record setting B1 bomber pilot 

14.  Bill Norton – National Center for Constitutional Studies, Chairman, Constitution Week USA in AZ 

15.  David Allan – Physicist, Constitutional and Religion Educator and writer

16.  Paul Skousen - Constitution Coach and son of Cleon Skousen 

17.  John Bizimana – Rwanda genocide survivor and recent US Citizen

18.  Steve Smoot – Film Producer, Real Estate Developer

19.  Jared Law – Regional Coordinator of the 9.12 project 

20.  Elder Hartman Rector Jr. – Emeritus LDS General Authority

21.  Hans Andersen – Citizen Constitutionalist

22.  G.K. Mangelson – Nationally Acclaimed Educator and Constitutional Speaker

23.  Joel Skousen -  Author, Publisher of World Affairs Brief

24.  Sharon Slater – President, Family Watch International

25.  Gregg Hardy – Colonial Heritage Foundation, Benjamin Franklin actor

The most exciting and comprehensive DVD series on Book of Mormon geography is available after over 2 years of gathering high-definition film footage, conducting interviews, and creating graphics that has taken 8 months of editing to complete.  You will experience this research like never before!  On location explanations, interviews with renowned filmmakers, artists, historians, and experts in several fields.  Over 9 hours of in-depth explanations and presentations that will have you saying like so many thousands of others, "Why didn't I know this before?"  This DVD series is being described as the most powerful evidence for the truthfulness and historicity of the Book of Mormon ever assembled by those who have previewed it. 

The 5 DVD disk series includes:

DVD 1; Prophecies and Promises; Promised Land Correlations with the United States of America

DVD 2; Joseph Smith; Joseph Smith and Book of Mormon Geography

DVD 3; DNA and the Book of Mormon; Rediscovering the Book of Mormon Remnant through DNA

DVD 4; Book of Mormon Correlations; Correlations between the Nephites and the Hopewell Civilization

DVD 5; The Heartland Geography; Mapping the Book of Mormon using the Heartland Geography

Each of the DVD's is approximately an hour an a half in length plus bonus features making them about 2 hours total viewing time per DVD.

You will see interviews with:

Elder Hartman Rector Jr., emeritus member of the First Quorum of the Seventy

Kieth Merrill, award winning filmmaker and writer and director of 'Legacy' and 'The Testaments'

Wayne N. May, author and publisher of Ancient American magazine

Bruce H. Porter Ph.D., author and LDS ancient linguistics scholar, CES director

Kay Godfrey, 30 year Joseph Smith period historian and Church History tour host

David Lindsley, renowned LDS artist and painter of Joseph Smith artwork on the current Church manual

Dr. Robert Fuller, owner of the Zermatt Resort, Midway Utah.

Charles Allen, author of Out of Captivity and Zelph Mound location researcher

Shirley Whitlock, 15 year president of Eagle Forum of AZ, Constitutionalist

James Bradley, foremost expert and author of The Eternal Perspective of Zion's Camp

Jon McNaughton, renowned LDS artist and painter of One Nation Under God

Jason Millward, LDS sculptor, creator of Visions of the Past and The Promised Land sculptures

Michael Bedard, painter of the restoration, Nauvoo, IL

Cal Christensen, long time resident and historian of old Nauvoo

Click on the film frame below to see the introductory trailer to the DVD series