I'm finding it VERY interesting that the Mormon church is releasing long held secrets at this time. Do you think they know we are coming up to a significant event in human history and they no longer have a need to keep their information hidden? (I do).
This article says Joseph Smith used his "seer stone" to translate the golden tablets, but I always thought it was a pair of eyeglasses given to him by Moroni (who, btw, is an alien, not an angel). The church says more manuscripts will be released until all they have is made public. (I wonder if they will finally tell the truth about the talking salamander; uh reptilian?)
I've always had a fascination with the Mormon religion, especially the origins. (I'm not Mormon, but my family roots are in the LDS church. My ancestor was Joseph Smith's bodyguard). Peter Levenda's excellent book "The Angel and the Sorcerer" is a MUST read for all who are interested in ufology, paranormal, spiritualism, or the history of the Mormon church.
http://www.sltrib.com/news/2802019-155/ ... -documents