Author Phillip B Gottfredson with Gary Lee Price renowned sculptor of Timpanogos Chief Wakara
The 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."
For more than twenty years, Phillip B Gottfredson, a pioneering historian, dedicated his life to researching the Black Hawk War in Utah and exploring the Native Americans' perspectives on settler colonialism throughout the Americas. He describes his work as a spiritual journey to understand a remarkable leader, Timpanogos Chief Black Hawk, and his Mission of Peace. Phillip has never regretted living with Indigenous tribes that brought to light invaluable insights that challenge the misconceptions that Indigenous people were "savages and heathens," and Mormons were "saints." 'We can learn so much from the Native Americans if we would only listen,' he emphasizes the crucial importance of Indigenous perspectives in understanding American history. (Black Hawk was the nephew of Timpanogos Chief Wakara.)
Gottfredson expresses deep gratitude to the Timpanogos Nation, 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. For shareing your sacred lifeways, leading to a profound transformation in hi life. The impact of these Indigenous tribes was truly priceless.
He also acknowledges the invaluable support of historians, donors, and friends who believed in the Black Hawk War Project and generously offered their time, expertise, and assistance. Their contributions have been instrumental in the success of his research.
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. See Indigenous Day Awards
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 Uintah Valley Reservation. Gottfredson is a mentor to John Perry Christensen Historian of American History and professor at University of Utah, and Utah State University. See Phillip B Gottfredson Biography
"Phillip has touched the lives of many..." Five Star Reviews!
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
"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
"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
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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.
