Smith reports on Able's mixed-race heritage.
Elijah Able, Biographical Sketch by Joseph F. Smith, 1879, Church History Library
Elijah Able grand father. Joseph Abel was an Englishman and a member of the English House of Commons. His father’s name was Andrew Able. his grand mother was a half white—his mother Delilah Williams was of Scotch descent and died when Elijah was 8 days ^years^ old. Joined the church in Sep. 1832 in Cincinnati —was ordained an Elder by Ambrose Palmer—a high Priest Jan. 25. 1836 and Liscenced by Joseph the Prophet in Kirtland Mar. 31 1836 Recieved [sic] his washings & anointings in the Kirtland Temple, also in 1836 under the hands of Judge Beaman & Ruben P. Hadlock. Was ordained a Seventy by Z. Coltrin 1836. Rec^d^ a Liscence from Jos. Young & A. P. Rockwood in 1841 in Nauvoo. His wife was also an Octoroon. Joseph said he was entitled to the Priesthood and all the blessings. He recieved a patriarchal blessing under the hands of Father Joseph Smith and blessed as his own son &c.