Daniel H. Wells
Born: 27 October 1814
Called as Counselor in the First Presidency: 4 January 1857 (Brigham Young)
Released from First Presidency: 29 August 1877
Died: 24 March 1891
Called as Counselor in the First Presidency: 4 January 1857 (Brigham Young)
Released from First Presidency: 29 August 1877
Died: 24 March 1891
Biographical Articles
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 1
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 4
Contributor, May 1891, Daniel H. Wells
Improvement Era, October 1914, Daniel Hanmer Wells
Improvement Era, October 1914, Daniel Hanmer Wells
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 4
Contributor, May 1891, Daniel H. Wells
Improvement Era, October 1914, Daniel Hanmer Wells
Improvement Era, October 1914, Daniel Hanmer Wells
Jenson, Andrew. "Wells, Daniel Hanmer." Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 1. pg. 62-66.
WELLS, Daniel Hanmer, second counselor to President Brigham Young from 1857 to 1877, was the son of Daniel Wells and Catherine Chapin, and was born at Trenton, Oneida county, New York, Oct. 27, 1814. His father served In the war of 1812 and was a descendant of the celebrated Thomas Wells, the fourth governor of Connecticut, who was several times elected alternatelyas governor and lieutenant-governor of that colony. Daniel H. Wells' mother was the daughter of David Chapin, a revolutionary soldier and connected with one of the oldest and most distinguished New England families. He served under the immediate command of Washington during the greater part of the War of Independence. In 1826, when he was but twelve years of age, Daniel H. lost his father, and six years later, together with his mother and sister, he moved to Ohio and the following spring to Illinois. He took up his abode at Commerce, then a small village, but afterwards noted as the "Mormon" city of Nauvoo. Here he was elected constable and later justice of the peace; he was also an officer in the first militia organization of the district. In politics he was a Whig and figured prominently in the political conventions of the period. As an ardent champion of universal liberty and a foe to oppression in every form, he was highly esteemed by people of all parties and creeds, and frequently acted as arbitrator in difficulties between neighbors and families. "Squire Wells" was noted, in that early day, as a man of strict integrity, with a high sense of justice and impartiality. In 1839, when the Saints, fleeing from Missouri, settled at Commerce, he aided in securing for them a cordial welcome. Among other pieces of property, he owned eighty acres of land on the bluff. This he platted into city-lots, which he let the poor and persecuted refugees have at very low, figures and on long time for payment. This endeared him to the people and determined the location of the chief part of the city, and of the Temple which was built on land that had belonged to him. On making the acquaintance of the Prophet Joseph Smith he became strongly attached to bim, though then unconnected with the Church. When the charter was granted by the Illinois legislature to the City of Nauvoo, he was elected an alderman and a member of the city council; also a regent of the University and a brigadier-general in the Nauvoo Legion. He was prominent in the city affairs and supported every public measure for the progress and welfare of the citizens. When the opposition to the "Mormons" reached its height, General Wells remained on the side of the assailed people and would not join in any of the movements for their injury. The murder of the Prophet and Patriarch (Joseph and Hyrum) aroused his deepest indignation, and he strongly protested against the demand of the governor of the State for the arms of the Legion, which was made under the pretext that the people of Nauvoo might attempt to avenge the slaughter of their leaders. But it was not until the exodus of the main body of the Church, and the people who remained in the city were in their direst extremity, being attacked by their enemies in violation of a solemn compact, that this sterling champion of the oppresed cast in his lot for life with the Latter-day Saints. After his baptism, on Aug. 9, 1846, he gave the Church his
full faith and support. In the battle of Nauvoo, General Wells was practically the leading spirit. Col. Johnson was taken sick and Lieutenant-
Colonel Cutler assumed the command. Brother Wells was his aide, and on his white charger was a prominent target for the enemy's bullets. His house also was fired upon repeatedly. He escaped unharmed, and during the three days' siege was a tower of strength to the men who were fighting for home and fam.ily. When the city was evacuated, he was one of the last to leave, and being fired upon by the enemy's cannon after crossing the river into Iowa, he sent one of the balls with his compliments to the governor of that State, as a specimen of Illinois' respect for its obligations. One of the terms of the treaty between the Saints and the mob was that the former should
cross into Iowa unmolested and have their arms returned to them. Brother Wells rode day and night in a one horse buggy to reach the main body of the exiled "Mormons," that teams might be immediately sent back for the remnant that had been expelled from Nauvoo. After settling up his affairs in Illinois, he started for the West and came to Utah in 1848, acting as aide-de-camp to President Brigham Young on the second journey of the pioneers. When Great Salt Lake City was laid out, Brother Wells drew a lot in the Eighth Ward, but as President Young desired his near presence, he moved to the east side of the Eagle Gate, and subsequently to the land east of the "Deseret News" office, where he occupied the small adobie houses which stood there until a recent date, and where most of his children were born. Brother Wells took an active part in the organization of the provisional State of Deseret, and was elected to the first legislative council and appointed as State attorney, and was also elected major-general of the Nauvoo Legion (the State militia), by the General Assembly May 26, 1849. He received the rank of lieutenant-general of the Legion March 27, 1852, and was commissioned to that office by Governor Brigham Young March 7, 1855. On the passage of the Territorial militia law providing for the election of general officers, he was re-elected lieutenant-general April 6, 1857. In the Indian troubles that arose in Utah county and afterwards in Sanpete county, General Wells took the field in person, routing the savages at Provo, and other places, and saving the Sanpete and Sevier settlements from the
disasters that subsequently threatened them. These Indian campaigns were conducted with great military skill and success, and cost a great deal of money, men, munitions and provisions having to be largely furnished from Salt Lake City and the north. A claim for over
a million dollars against the United States remains to this day unpaid, though made out in due and detailed form, in the same manner as the Oregon claim, which was settled long ago. General Wells was in command of the Echo Canyon expeclition in 1857-58, and conducted it with signal skill, under the direction of Governor Brigham Young, without shedding "one drop of blood." His fearless character, cool head and executive talent were here exhibited in a manner that won for him unfading renown among the "Mormon" people. Hon. Daniel H. Wells was a member of the legislative council in the Territorial assembly for many terms, and of most of the conventions that framed
constitutions for Utah's Statehood. His clear perception of legal points and strong regard for constitutional principles rendered him a valuable adviser and able legislator. He was appointed second counselor to President Brigham Young, Jan. 4, 1857, filling the vacancy occasioned by the death of President Jedediah M. Grant. Brother Wells had previously been ordained an Apostle, and with Presidents Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball he visited the Saints throughout the Territory, aided in locating and organizing many settlements, and gave counsel in relation to the affairs of the Church. He was also the superintendent of public works, occupying that position until 1864. In the absence of President Young he was frequently left in charge of affairs, and was looked to for advice in important matters. Oct. 28, 1871, President Wells was arrested on a trumped up charge of being accessory to the murder of Richard Yates at the mouth of Echo canyon in 1857. The notorious "Bill" Hickman confessed to having done the deed, but was induced to implicate General Wells, alleging that the occurrence took place while he was in charge of the Echo canyon expedition. He was sent to Fort Doug!as for safe keeping, where he received the most courteous treatment from Gen. Morrow, who regarded the whole proceeding as an outrage. However, on Monday, the 31st, being brought before Judge McKean, application was made that he be admitted to bail. His attorneys advised him that such an application would be in vain, but his confidence was complete that he would be successful, and he insisted that the attempt should be made. In spite of the claim of the prosecution that this was a charge of murder in the first degree. Judge McKean took into consideration all the circumstances, including the fact that the defendant was mayor of the city, and to the surprise of the entire community he accepted bail in the sum of $30,000— the prosecution demanding half 1 million—and the prisoner was rehased. The whole charge, of course, fell to the ground, as there was not the slightest foundation for it in fact. In the summer of 1876 he was placed
in charge of a company to visit and encourage the newly started settlements in Arizona. While crossing the Colorado river at Lee's Ferry, the boat, containing his traveling wagon and outfit and a number of the party, was capsized and thrown into the rushing and turbulent stream. He was only an indifferent swimmer, but though weighed down with his boots and clothing he calmly struck out for the shore,
reaching it without wetting his necktie. He always regarded his escape as miraculous, feeling as though unseen hands were supporting him. Bishop Lorenzo W. Roundy, who was regarded as an expert swimmer, was drowned, and the whole outfit was swept away and lost. His position as one of the First Presidency he occupied until the decease of President Young, Aug. 29, 1877. When the Twelve Apostles succeeded to the presidency. Brother Wells was appointed a counselor to that quorum, which position he held until his death. In 1864 he went on a mission to Great Britain, and, with Elder Brigham Young, jun., presided over all the missions in Europe, visiting various countries, ministering to the people and superintending the emigration. He returned to Utah in the fall of 1865, and in 1868 took charge of the Endowment House, where he ministered in the sacred ordinances for the living and the dead for many years. In February, 1866. he was elected Mayor of Salt Lake City. He was re-elected successively until 1876. The first occasion on which women exercised the elective franchise in Utah was on Feb. 14. 1870, when they cast their ballots for Daniel H. Weils for Mayor and for the other members of the city council. In 1872 he was one of the prime movers in starting the gas works in Salt Lake City. in which he largely invested and which proved a successful enterprise. At the general election, held August 3, 1874. when a delegate to Congress was to be elected, Robert N. Baskin had been nominated as the "Liberal" candidate, in opposition to Hon. George Q. Cannon; and the U. S. marshal, General Maxwell, attempted to take control of the election. No trouble occurred except at the Fifth precinct, the polling place for which was at the City Hall. Here a large number of armed deputy-marshals with a mob of "Liberals" interfered with the police in their efforts to preserve the peace. Some arrests being made by the police, they were in turn arrested by deputy marshals, and excitement ran high. Mayor Wells was on the spot and endeavored to keep down the tumult. He was set upon by the mob, brutally struck and his coat nearly torn from his back. The police
came to his rescue, the mob was forced back, and the mayor appeared on the balcony, and, amid cries of "shoot him, shoot him," he read the riot act and commanded the police to disperse the crowd. This was done at the expense of some broken heads, but was effectual, and the mayor and police held their places and vindicated the law. The next morning Mayor Wells was arrested and put under $4,000 bonds. The chief of police and several of his officers were also arrested; but the whole matter was dropped, and it was everywhere acknowledged that the city officials simply did their duty, and that Mayor Wells had exhibited fearless determination, maintained the dignity of his office and prevented the serious conflict desired by those who provoked the disturbance, to be used for political purposes. When President Young was sent to the Penitentiary for contempt of court March 11, 1875, for not complying with an absurd order by Judge McKean, President Wells accompanied him and stayed with him until his release; his imprisonment, however, lasted but one day. Judge McKean lost his official head for this act of tyrannical folly. In 1879 Brother Wells again saw the inside of the Utah penitentiary, this time being imprisoned himself for contempt of court, in refusing to disclose the secret and sacred rites of the Endowment House. As a witness in the Miles polygamy case on May 2, 1879, he was interrogated by the prosecuting attorney in relation to clothing worn in those ceremonies. He declined to answer, for which he was remanded to the custody of the Marshal, and next day, being cited to appear and questioned again, he replied, "I declined to answer that question yesterday, and do so to-day, because I am under moral and sacred obligations to not answer; and it is interwoven in my character never to betray a friend, a brother, my country, my God or my religion." This was a clear exhibition of the character of the man. Not for worlds would he swerve from that position. He was sentenced to a fine of a hundred dollars and imprisonment for two days. He paid the penalty, and on May 6th he was escorted from the penitentiary by a procession, hastily but thoroughly organized, consisting of about ten thousand people with banners, mottoes, flags and signs of rejoicing, one of the most remarkable gatherings and demonstrations of respect, ever witnessed in the United States of America. An immense but
peaceful meeting was subsequently held in the Tabernacle, where appropriate speeches were made. In December, 1884, Counselor Wells crossed the ocean again and presided over the European Mission, visiting the branches and conferences throughout the British Isles
and also in Scandinavia, Germany and Switzerland. His health was feeble, but he labored energetically until his release in January, 1887, when he returned to the United States, and after visiting relatives in the East, reached his home again in July of that year, and was joyfully welcomed by his family and friends. When the Manti Temple was completed and dedicated he was appointed to take charge as president, May 21, 1888. Here he was in congenial element. The salvation of the dead was the chief attraction to him in the doctrines expounded to him by Joseph Smith the Prophet, and led to his investigation and acceptance of the gospel. He officiated in the Temple
and performed his duties as counselor to the Twelve until stricken with the illness which culminated in his death. He came to Salt Lake City, March 14, 1891, and received every attention that loving hearts and hands could bestow. He had suffered for many years with a painful physical ailment, but his heroic nature and strong will enabled him to surmount the difficulties it occasioned. Pleuro-pneumonia
supervened, and at 1 o'clock, March 24, 1891, he peacefully departed, being without pain and conscious to the last. Brother Wells would have been a leading character in any community. Standing six feet in height, with prominent features and organs of perception, his appearance was striking while his manner was unassuming. Apparently stern in his demeanor he was really one of the kindest of men, full of sympathy and affection, ready to aid the distressed and with a heart so big that he would welcome the world to partake of his hospitality and share with him whatever he had. His house was always open to his friends, and while acting as mayor of Salt Lake City he entertained many distinguished visitors, both Americans and foreigners, who respected him for his virtues, while disagreeing with his views on religion. He was a firm friend and supporter of education, was for many years chancellor and regent of the University of Deseret and considered that a good education was the best legacy he could bequeath to his children. He was also a great reader, an ardent admirer of the drama, which was his chief amusement, and a promoter of music, science and art. In politics he was a Republican from the time of the organization of the party. He took earnest interest in national politics, in which he was thoroughly versed, and was ever ready to maintain his views though never a bitter or contentious partizan. He was engaged in many business enterprises, but, placing his public duties first, his own affairs became somewhat complicated and at one time he was heavily involved. But of late years he was gradually extricated from embarrassment and was able to leave his family the possessors of unincumbered yet modest homes. Brother Wells had seven wives (six of whom survived him), by whom he had thirty-seven children. Of these twenty-four, namely thirteen sons and eleven
daughters, were living at the time of his demise. He left twenty-five living grandchildren. His faith in God and in the system called "Mormonism" was unbounded, and his integrity to the principles of the gospel was unwavering. His testimony to the divine mission of Joseph Smith was powerful, and from the time he received it by the manifestation of the Holy Spirit, he never doubted it or feared to face theopposition of its enemies. His was a noble spirit and he performed a noble work on the earth.
WELLS, Daniel Hanmer, second counselor to President Brigham Young from 1857 to 1877, was the son of Daniel Wells and Catherine Chapin, and was born at Trenton, Oneida county, New York, Oct. 27, 1814. His father served In the war of 1812 and was a descendant of the celebrated Thomas Wells, the fourth governor of Connecticut, who was several times elected alternatelyas governor and lieutenant-governor of that colony. Daniel H. Wells' mother was the daughter of David Chapin, a revolutionary soldier and connected with one of the oldest and most distinguished New England families. He served under the immediate command of Washington during the greater part of the War of Independence. In 1826, when he was but twelve years of age, Daniel H. lost his father, and six years later, together with his mother and sister, he moved to Ohio and the following spring to Illinois. He took up his abode at Commerce, then a small village, but afterwards noted as the "Mormon" city of Nauvoo. Here he was elected constable and later justice of the peace; he was also an officer in the first militia organization of the district. In politics he was a Whig and figured prominently in the political conventions of the period. As an ardent champion of universal liberty and a foe to oppression in every form, he was highly esteemed by people of all parties and creeds, and frequently acted as arbitrator in difficulties between neighbors and families. "Squire Wells" was noted, in that early day, as a man of strict integrity, with a high sense of justice and impartiality. In 1839, when the Saints, fleeing from Missouri, settled at Commerce, he aided in securing for them a cordial welcome. Among other pieces of property, he owned eighty acres of land on the bluff. This he platted into city-lots, which he let the poor and persecuted refugees have at very low, figures and on long time for payment. This endeared him to the people and determined the location of the chief part of the city, and of the Temple which was built on land that had belonged to him. On making the acquaintance of the Prophet Joseph Smith he became strongly attached to bim, though then unconnected with the Church. When the charter was granted by the Illinois legislature to the City of Nauvoo, he was elected an alderman and a member of the city council; also a regent of the University and a brigadier-general in the Nauvoo Legion. He was prominent in the city affairs and supported every public measure for the progress and welfare of the citizens. When the opposition to the "Mormons" reached its height, General Wells remained on the side of the assailed people and would not join in any of the movements for their injury. The murder of the Prophet and Patriarch (Joseph and Hyrum) aroused his deepest indignation, and he strongly protested against the demand of the governor of the State for the arms of the Legion, which was made under the pretext that the people of Nauvoo might attempt to avenge the slaughter of their leaders. But it was not until the exodus of the main body of the Church, and the people who remained in the city were in their direst extremity, being attacked by their enemies in violation of a solemn compact, that this sterling champion of the oppresed cast in his lot for life with the Latter-day Saints. After his baptism, on Aug. 9, 1846, he gave the Church his
full faith and support. In the battle of Nauvoo, General Wells was practically the leading spirit. Col. Johnson was taken sick and Lieutenant-
Colonel Cutler assumed the command. Brother Wells was his aide, and on his white charger was a prominent target for the enemy's bullets. His house also was fired upon repeatedly. He escaped unharmed, and during the three days' siege was a tower of strength to the men who were fighting for home and fam.ily. When the city was evacuated, he was one of the last to leave, and being fired upon by the enemy's cannon after crossing the river into Iowa, he sent one of the balls with his compliments to the governor of that State, as a specimen of Illinois' respect for its obligations. One of the terms of the treaty between the Saints and the mob was that the former should
cross into Iowa unmolested and have their arms returned to them. Brother Wells rode day and night in a one horse buggy to reach the main body of the exiled "Mormons," that teams might be immediately sent back for the remnant that had been expelled from Nauvoo. After settling up his affairs in Illinois, he started for the West and came to Utah in 1848, acting as aide-de-camp to President Brigham Young on the second journey of the pioneers. When Great Salt Lake City was laid out, Brother Wells drew a lot in the Eighth Ward, but as President Young desired his near presence, he moved to the east side of the Eagle Gate, and subsequently to the land east of the "Deseret News" office, where he occupied the small adobie houses which stood there until a recent date, and where most of his children were born. Brother Wells took an active part in the organization of the provisional State of Deseret, and was elected to the first legislative council and appointed as State attorney, and was also elected major-general of the Nauvoo Legion (the State militia), by the General Assembly May 26, 1849. He received the rank of lieutenant-general of the Legion March 27, 1852, and was commissioned to that office by Governor Brigham Young March 7, 1855. On the passage of the Territorial militia law providing for the election of general officers, he was re-elected lieutenant-general April 6, 1857. In the Indian troubles that arose in Utah county and afterwards in Sanpete county, General Wells took the field in person, routing the savages at Provo, and other places, and saving the Sanpete and Sevier settlements from the
disasters that subsequently threatened them. These Indian campaigns were conducted with great military skill and success, and cost a great deal of money, men, munitions and provisions having to be largely furnished from Salt Lake City and the north. A claim for over
a million dollars against the United States remains to this day unpaid, though made out in due and detailed form, in the same manner as the Oregon claim, which was settled long ago. General Wells was in command of the Echo Canyon expeclition in 1857-58, and conducted it with signal skill, under the direction of Governor Brigham Young, without shedding "one drop of blood." His fearless character, cool head and executive talent were here exhibited in a manner that won for him unfading renown among the "Mormon" people. Hon. Daniel H. Wells was a member of the legislative council in the Territorial assembly for many terms, and of most of the conventions that framed
constitutions for Utah's Statehood. His clear perception of legal points and strong regard for constitutional principles rendered him a valuable adviser and able legislator. He was appointed second counselor to President Brigham Young, Jan. 4, 1857, filling the vacancy occasioned by the death of President Jedediah M. Grant. Brother Wells had previously been ordained an Apostle, and with Presidents Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball he visited the Saints throughout the Territory, aided in locating and organizing many settlements, and gave counsel in relation to the affairs of the Church. He was also the superintendent of public works, occupying that position until 1864. In the absence of President Young he was frequently left in charge of affairs, and was looked to for advice in important matters. Oct. 28, 1871, President Wells was arrested on a trumped up charge of being accessory to the murder of Richard Yates at the mouth of Echo canyon in 1857. The notorious "Bill" Hickman confessed to having done the deed, but was induced to implicate General Wells, alleging that the occurrence took place while he was in charge of the Echo canyon expedition. He was sent to Fort Doug!as for safe keeping, where he received the most courteous treatment from Gen. Morrow, who regarded the whole proceeding as an outrage. However, on Monday, the 31st, being brought before Judge McKean, application was made that he be admitted to bail. His attorneys advised him that such an application would be in vain, but his confidence was complete that he would be successful, and he insisted that the attempt should be made. In spite of the claim of the prosecution that this was a charge of murder in the first degree. Judge McKean took into consideration all the circumstances, including the fact that the defendant was mayor of the city, and to the surprise of the entire community he accepted bail in the sum of $30,000— the prosecution demanding half 1 million—and the prisoner was rehased. The whole charge, of course, fell to the ground, as there was not the slightest foundation for it in fact. In the summer of 1876 he was placed
in charge of a company to visit and encourage the newly started settlements in Arizona. While crossing the Colorado river at Lee's Ferry, the boat, containing his traveling wagon and outfit and a number of the party, was capsized and thrown into the rushing and turbulent stream. He was only an indifferent swimmer, but though weighed down with his boots and clothing he calmly struck out for the shore,
reaching it without wetting his necktie. He always regarded his escape as miraculous, feeling as though unseen hands were supporting him. Bishop Lorenzo W. Roundy, who was regarded as an expert swimmer, was drowned, and the whole outfit was swept away and lost. His position as one of the First Presidency he occupied until the decease of President Young, Aug. 29, 1877. When the Twelve Apostles succeeded to the presidency. Brother Wells was appointed a counselor to that quorum, which position he held until his death. In 1864 he went on a mission to Great Britain, and, with Elder Brigham Young, jun., presided over all the missions in Europe, visiting various countries, ministering to the people and superintending the emigration. He returned to Utah in the fall of 1865, and in 1868 took charge of the Endowment House, where he ministered in the sacred ordinances for the living and the dead for many years. In February, 1866. he was elected Mayor of Salt Lake City. He was re-elected successively until 1876. The first occasion on which women exercised the elective franchise in Utah was on Feb. 14. 1870, when they cast their ballots for Daniel H. Weils for Mayor and for the other members of the city council. In 1872 he was one of the prime movers in starting the gas works in Salt Lake City. in which he largely invested and which proved a successful enterprise. At the general election, held August 3, 1874. when a delegate to Congress was to be elected, Robert N. Baskin had been nominated as the "Liberal" candidate, in opposition to Hon. George Q. Cannon; and the U. S. marshal, General Maxwell, attempted to take control of the election. No trouble occurred except at the Fifth precinct, the polling place for which was at the City Hall. Here a large number of armed deputy-marshals with a mob of "Liberals" interfered with the police in their efforts to preserve the peace. Some arrests being made by the police, they were in turn arrested by deputy marshals, and excitement ran high. Mayor Wells was on the spot and endeavored to keep down the tumult. He was set upon by the mob, brutally struck and his coat nearly torn from his back. The police
came to his rescue, the mob was forced back, and the mayor appeared on the balcony, and, amid cries of "shoot him, shoot him," he read the riot act and commanded the police to disperse the crowd. This was done at the expense of some broken heads, but was effectual, and the mayor and police held their places and vindicated the law. The next morning Mayor Wells was arrested and put under $4,000 bonds. The chief of police and several of his officers were also arrested; but the whole matter was dropped, and it was everywhere acknowledged that the city officials simply did their duty, and that Mayor Wells had exhibited fearless determination, maintained the dignity of his office and prevented the serious conflict desired by those who provoked the disturbance, to be used for political purposes. When President Young was sent to the Penitentiary for contempt of court March 11, 1875, for not complying with an absurd order by Judge McKean, President Wells accompanied him and stayed with him until his release; his imprisonment, however, lasted but one day. Judge McKean lost his official head for this act of tyrannical folly. In 1879 Brother Wells again saw the inside of the Utah penitentiary, this time being imprisoned himself for contempt of court, in refusing to disclose the secret and sacred rites of the Endowment House. As a witness in the Miles polygamy case on May 2, 1879, he was interrogated by the prosecuting attorney in relation to clothing worn in those ceremonies. He declined to answer, for which he was remanded to the custody of the Marshal, and next day, being cited to appear and questioned again, he replied, "I declined to answer that question yesterday, and do so to-day, because I am under moral and sacred obligations to not answer; and it is interwoven in my character never to betray a friend, a brother, my country, my God or my religion." This was a clear exhibition of the character of the man. Not for worlds would he swerve from that position. He was sentenced to a fine of a hundred dollars and imprisonment for two days. He paid the penalty, and on May 6th he was escorted from the penitentiary by a procession, hastily but thoroughly organized, consisting of about ten thousand people with banners, mottoes, flags and signs of rejoicing, one of the most remarkable gatherings and demonstrations of respect, ever witnessed in the United States of America. An immense but
peaceful meeting was subsequently held in the Tabernacle, where appropriate speeches were made. In December, 1884, Counselor Wells crossed the ocean again and presided over the European Mission, visiting the branches and conferences throughout the British Isles
and also in Scandinavia, Germany and Switzerland. His health was feeble, but he labored energetically until his release in January, 1887, when he returned to the United States, and after visiting relatives in the East, reached his home again in July of that year, and was joyfully welcomed by his family and friends. When the Manti Temple was completed and dedicated he was appointed to take charge as president, May 21, 1888. Here he was in congenial element. The salvation of the dead was the chief attraction to him in the doctrines expounded to him by Joseph Smith the Prophet, and led to his investigation and acceptance of the gospel. He officiated in the Temple
and performed his duties as counselor to the Twelve until stricken with the illness which culminated in his death. He came to Salt Lake City, March 14, 1891, and received every attention that loving hearts and hands could bestow. He had suffered for many years with a painful physical ailment, but his heroic nature and strong will enabled him to surmount the difficulties it occasioned. Pleuro-pneumonia
supervened, and at 1 o'clock, March 24, 1891, he peacefully departed, being without pain and conscious to the last. Brother Wells would have been a leading character in any community. Standing six feet in height, with prominent features and organs of perception, his appearance was striking while his manner was unassuming. Apparently stern in his demeanor he was really one of the kindest of men, full of sympathy and affection, ready to aid the distressed and with a heart so big that he would welcome the world to partake of his hospitality and share with him whatever he had. His house was always open to his friends, and while acting as mayor of Salt Lake City he entertained many distinguished visitors, both Americans and foreigners, who respected him for his virtues, while disagreeing with his views on religion. He was a firm friend and supporter of education, was for many years chancellor and regent of the University of Deseret and considered that a good education was the best legacy he could bequeath to his children. He was also a great reader, an ardent admirer of the drama, which was his chief amusement, and a promoter of music, science and art. In politics he was a Republican from the time of the organization of the party. He took earnest interest in national politics, in which he was thoroughly versed, and was ever ready to maintain his views though never a bitter or contentious partizan. He was engaged in many business enterprises, but, placing his public duties first, his own affairs became somewhat complicated and at one time he was heavily involved. But of late years he was gradually extricated from embarrassment and was able to leave his family the possessors of unincumbered yet modest homes. Brother Wells had seven wives (six of whom survived him), by whom he had thirty-seven children. Of these twenty-four, namely thirteen sons and eleven
daughters, were living at the time of his demise. He left twenty-five living grandchildren. His faith in God and in the system called "Mormonism" was unbounded, and his integrity to the principles of the gospel was unwavering. His testimony to the divine mission of Joseph Smith was powerful, and from the time he received it by the manifestation of the Holy Spirit, he never doubted it or feared to face theopposition of its enemies. His was a noble spirit and he performed a noble work on the earth.
Jenson, Andrew. "Wells, Daniel H." Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 4. pg. 320
WELLS, Daniel H., president of the British Mission from 1864 to 1865, and also from 1885 to 1887, died March 24, 1891. (See Bio. Ency., Vol. 1, p. 62.)
WELLS, Daniel H., president of the British Mission from 1864 to 1865, and also from 1885 to 1887, died March 24, 1891. (See Bio. Ency., Vol. 1, p. 62.)
"Daniel H. Wells." Contributor. May 1891. pg. 240-260.
DANIEL H. WELLS. Born October 27, 1814. Died March 24, 1891. Daniel Hanmer Wells, born at Trenton, Oneida County, New York, was the only son of Daniel Wells and Catherine Chapin, who was his second wife, and by whom he also had a daughter, Catherine Chapin Wells. By his first marriage—with Honor Francis —Daniel Wells was the father of five other daughters, Abbie, Eliza, Lucy Ann, Frances and Pamela, all of whom are dead. Daniel Wells was born at Weathersfield, Connecticut, and was descended through Joshua, Joseph, Robert and John from Thomas Wells, the first American progenitor, who settled at Hartford in 1660, and became the fourth governor of Connecticut, and was several times elected alternately to the office of governor and lieutenant-governor of that colony. Catherine Chapin was the daughter of David Chapin, a Revolutionary soldier and connected with one of the oldest and most distinguished New England families. He served under the immediate command of Washington and during the greater part of the War of Independence. He died at the great age of ninety-six and is buried at Havanna, New York. When Daniel H. Wells was twelve years old his father died and he was made to feel the responsibility of providing for his mother and younger sister, his half-sisters being either married or provided for. He worked on a farm, and because of his large stature and strength of limb, did a man's work, while receiving a boy's pay. At the age of eighteen he settled with the administrators of his father's estate, by which he and his sister were entitled to a little means, and moved with her and his mother to Marietta, ^ Ohio, but finding the land there undesirable, and his winter's experience as a school teacher unattractive, the next spring he pushed on to Illinois, settling near Commerce, Hancock County, then a small village, but afterwards noted as the beautiful city of Nauvoo. By his industry here he soon had a small house built, and land cleared fur a farm. He thus laid the foundation for a home and put himself in a position of thrift that led to prosperity and independence. He earned a livelihood for his mother and sister until they each married, and he married himself. His accumulation of land, of which his fortune in Illinois consisted, was very rapid, and he was a successful farmer. His passion for fruit raising always led him to set out an orchard the first thing. His home in Illinois and every home he ever made, was always surrounded with an orchard, as soon as it was possible to raise the fruit trees. Before he was of age, Daniel H. Wells was elected to positions of trust and responsibility, having made a reputation for sober industry and substantial interest in the people and country. He was first elected constable, then justice of the peace, and was an officer in the first militia organization of Hancock County. He was a Whig in politics and figured prominently in the political conventions of the period. He was an ardent champion of universal liberty, and a foe to oppression in every form. He was highly esteemed by the people of all parties and creeds, and frequently acted as arbitrator in difficulties between neighbors and families. As "Squire Wells" he became noted in that early day, as a man of strict integrity, with a high sense of justice and impartiality. In 1839, when the Latter-day Saints, fleeing from Missouri, settled at Commerce, he aided in securing for them a cordial welcome. He owned, among other pieces of property, eighty acres of land on the bluff. This he platted into city lots and let the poor and persecuted refugees have them at very low figures, and on long time for payment. This endeared him to the people and determined the location of the chief part of the city, and of the Temple, which was built on land that had belonged to him. On making the acquaintance of the Prophet Joseph Smith he became strongly attached to him, though then unconnected with the Church. When the charter was granted by the Illinois Legislature to the City of Nauvoo, he was elected an Alderman and member of the City Council, also a Regent of the University and a Brigadier- General in the Nauvoo Legion. He was prominent in the city affairs, and supported every public measure for the progress and welfare of the citizens. When the opposition of the Mormons reached its height. General Wells remained on the side of the assailed people and would not join in any of the movements for their injury. The murder of the Prophet and Patriarch, Joseph and Hyrum, aroused his deepest indignation, and he strongly protested against the demand of the Governor of the State for the arms of the Legion, which was made under the pretext that the people of Nauvoo might attempt to avenge the slaughter of their leaders. But it was not until the exodus of the main body of the Church, and the people who remained in the city were in their direst extremity, being attacked by their enemies in violation of a solemn compact, that this sterling champion of the oppressed cast in his lot for life with the Latter-day Saints. He joined the Church and gave it his full faith and support. He was baptized August 9, 1846. Six weeks later the battle of Nauvoo occurred. General Wells was practically the leading spirit in this gallant defense of the city. Colonel Johnson was taken sick and Lieutenant-Colonel Cutler assumed the command. Brother Wells was his aide, and on his white charger was a prominent target for the enemy's bullets. His house also was fired upon repeatedly. He escaped unharmed, and during the three days' siege was a tower of strength to the men who were fighting for home and family. When the city was evacuated he was one of the last to leave, and being fired upon by the enemy's cannon after crossing the river into Iowa, he sent one of the balls with his compliments to the Governor of that State, as an evidence of Illinois' respect for its sister state. One of the terms of the treaty between the Saints and the mob was that the former should cross into Iowa unmolested and have their arms returned to them. Brother Wells rode day and night in a one-horse buggy to reach the main body of the exiled Saints, that teams might be immediately sent back for the remnant that had been expelled from Nauvoo. After settling up his affairs in Illinois, which involved the greatest sacrifice of his life—separation from his wife and only son, he started for the West and came to Utah in 1848, acting as aide-decamp to President Brigham Young on the second journey of the pioneers. When Salt Lake City was laid out Brother Wells drew a lot in the Eighth Ward. But President Young desiring his near presence, he moved to the east side of the Eagle Gate, and subsequently to the land east of the Deseret News office, where he occupied the small adobie houses still standing there, in which most of his children were born, and in one of which Sister Emmeline B. Wells now publishes the Woman's Exponent. He afterwards purchased and for years occupied the corner southeast of the Temple Block, on which Zion's Savings Bank is now built, and acquired valuable city and farm property in Salt Lake and Utah counties. Squire Wells took an active part in the organization of the provisional State of Deseret, and was elected to the first Legislative Council and appointed as State Attorney, and was also elected Major-General of the Nauvoo Legion, the State militia, by the General Assembly May 26, 1849. On the 27th of March, 1852, he received the rank of Lieutenant General of the Legion, and was commissioned to that office by Governor Brigham Young March 7, 1855. On the passage of the territorial militia law providing! for the election of general officers, he was re-elected Lieutenant General, April 6, 1857. In the Indian troubles that arose in Utah County and afterwards in Sanpete County, General Wells took the field in person, routing the savages at Provo, Battle Creek and Payson, and saving the Sanpete and Sevier settlements from the disasters that subsequently threatened them. These Indian campaigns were conducted with great military skill and success, and cost a great deal of money; men, munitions and provisions having to be largely furnished from Salt Lake City and the North. A claim for over a million dollars against the United States remains to this day unpaid, though made out in due and detailed form, in the same manner as the Oregon claim which was settled many years ago. General Wells was in command of the Echo Canyon expedition, and conducted it with signal skill, under the direction of Governor Brigham Young, without shedding "one drop of blood." His fearless character, cool head and executive talent, were here exhibited in a manner that won for him unfading renown among the Mormon people. His military career was full of exciting incidents, from the Battle of Nauvoo until the disbandment of the Nauvoo Legion. His contention with Governor Shaffer for the rights of the Legion, when some of its officers were arrested for carrying arms in a celebration of the Fourth of July, is well remembered. In civil life Honorable Daniel H. Wells was a conspicuous official from the organization of the provisional State of Deseret until the end of his last term as a Salt Lake City Councilor, 1852. He was a member of the Legislative Council in the Territorial Assembly for many terms, and of all the conventions that framed constitutions for Utah's Statehood except the last. His clear perception of legal points and strong regard for constitutional principles, rendered him a valuable adviser and able legislator. While Mayor of Salt Lake City, from 1866 to 1876, he conducted a judicial warfare against prostitution, liquor selling and gambling, which involved the exercise of great tact and wisdom, and led him into scenes of stubborn conflict with the Federal judiciary, often of the most exciting nature. He was by reason of his position called upon to defend himself and people continually in a most relentless determination of the Federal officials and carpet-bag politicians to break up the influence and power of the Mormon people. On the 28th of October, 1871, Mayor Wells was arrested on a trumped up charge of being accessory to the murder of Richard Yates at the mouth of Echo Canyon in 1857. The notorious Bill Hickman confessed to having done the deed, but was induced to implicate General Wells, alleging that the occurrence took place while he was in charge of the Echo Canyon Expedition. He was sent to Fort Douglas for safe keeping, where he received the most courteous treatment from Gen. Morrow, who regarded the whole proceeding as an outrage. However, on Monday, the 31st, being brought before Judge McKean, application was made that he be admitted to bail. His attorneys advised him that such an application would be in vain, but his confidence was complete that he would be successful, and he insisted that the attempt should be made. In spite of the claim of the prosecution that this was a charge of murder in the first degree, Judge McKean took into consideration all the circumstances, including the fact that the defendant was Mayor of the city, and to the surprise of the entire community he accepted bail in the sum of fitty thousand dollars—the prosecution demanding half a million—and the pris oner was released. The whole charge, of course, fell to the ground as there was not the slightest foundation for it in fact. At the general election on August 3rd, 1874, when a delegate to Congress was to be elected, R. N. Baskin had been nominated as the "Liberal" candidate, in opposition to Hon. Geo. Q. Cannon, and the U. S. Marshal, General Maxwell, attempted to take control of the election. No trouble occurred except at the Fifth Precinct, the polling place for which was at the City Hall. Here a large number of armed deputy marshals with a mob of "Liberals" interfered with the police in their efforts to preserve the peace. Some arrests being made by the police, they were in turn arrested by deputy marshals, and excitement ran high. Mayor Wells was on the spot and endeavored to keep down the tumult. He was set upon by the mob, brutally struck and his coat nearly torn from his back. The police came to his rescue, the mob was forced back, and the Mayor appeared on the balcony, and amid cries of "Shoot him! shoot him!" he read the riot act and commanded the police to disperse the crowd. This was done at the expense of some broken heads, but was effectual, and the Mayor and police held their places and vindicated the law. He was, next morning, arrested and put under four thousand dollars bonds The Chief of Police and several of his officers were also arrested, but the whole matter was dropped and it was everywhere acknowledged that the city officials simply did their duty, and that Mayor Wells had exhibited fearless determination, maintained the dignity of his office and prevented the serious conflict desired by those who provoked the disturbance, to be used for political purposes. In politics Daniel H. Wells was a Republican from the time of the organization of the party. He took earnest interest in national politics in which he was thoroughly versed, and was ever ready to maintain his views, though never a bitter or contentious partisan. He was a firm friend and supporter of education, was one of the first regents of the University of Deseret, and from 1869 to 1878, its Chancellor. During this period the University was established as a high school of the best grade, and put in the way to attain its present prominence and reputation as an educational establishment Chancellor Wells considered that a good education was the best legacy he could bequeath to his children. He was also a great reader, an ardent admirer of the drama, which was his chief amusement, and a promoter of music, science and art. Daniel H. Wells was always so much engaged in public affairs that his private business was made a secondary consideration. He, however, was a pioneer explorer of timber and coal and developed the first coal mines in Summit county and operated for many years the lumber mills in Big Cottonwood. He also managed the successful manufacture of nails, and in 1872 established the gas works of Salt Lake City, to the success of which he pledged his entire property. The valuable real estate which he acquired and held as long as it was possible for him to (without the assistance needed to carry the gas works and other enterprises in their infancy) showed his judgment in the selection of property. The management of his private affairs by which he extricated himself from obligations reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars and left his estate free from debt, under circumstances the most adverse throughout the later years of his life, is the best testimony of his capacity for business, when his time and talents were not absorbed in public affairs. He was always a large employer of men and thousands can testify of his generous treatment of those who worked for him. It was a pleasure to him to aid the poor in getting homes for themselves and families. While Superintendent of Public Works, an office held for many years before 1864, his counsel and help put many in the way of winning such independence. In the Church President Wells held the offices of Eider, High Priest, and Apostle. On the fourth of January, 1857, he was appointed second counselor to President Brigham Young, filling the vacancy occasioned by the death of President Jedediah M. Grant. He, with Presidents Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball, visited the Saints throughout the Territory, aided in locating and organizing many settlements, and gave counsel in relation to the affairs of the Church. In the absence of President Young he was frequently left in charge of affairs, and was looked to for advice m important matters. His position as one of the First Presidency, he occupied until the decease of President Brigham Young, August 29th, 1877. Then, the Twelve Apostles succeeding to the Presidency, Brother Wells was appointed a Counselor to that Quorum, and held the place until his death. In 1864 he went on a mission to England, and presided over all the branches in Europe, visiting various countries, ministering to the people and superintending the emigration. He returned to Utah in the fall of 1865, and in 1868 took charge of the Endowment House, where he ministered in the sacred ordinances for the living and the dead for many years. When, on March 11th, 1875, President Young was sent to the penitentiary for contempt of court in not complying with an absurd order by Judge McKean, President Wells accompanied him and stayed with him until his release. The perfect confidence and love existing between Presidents Young and Wells were often manifested and always in the hour of danger to the people. His imprisonment lasted but one day. In 1879 Brother Wells again saw the inside of the penitentiary, this time being imprisoned himself for contempt of court, in refusing to disclose the sacred rites of the Endowment House. As witness in the Miles polygamy case, on May 2nd, he was interrogated by the prosecuting attorney in relation to clothing worn in those ceremonies. He declined to answer. He was remanded to the custody of the Marshal, and next day, being questioned again, he replied: "I declined to answer that question yesterday, and do so today, because I am under moral and sacred obligations to not answer, and it is interwoven in my character never to betray a friend, a brother, my country, my God or my religion.'' This was a clear exhibition of the character of the man. Not for worlds would he swerve from that position. He was sentenced to a fine of one hundred dollars and imprisonment for two days. He paid the penalty, and on May 6th he was escorted from the penitentiary by a procession, hastily but thoroughly organized, consisting of about ten thousand people with banners, mottoes, flags and signs of rejoicing, one of the most remarkable gatherings and demonstrations of respect ever witnessed in this country. An immense but peaceful meeting was subsequently held in the Tabernacle, where appropriate speeches were made. In the summer of 1876, he was placed in charge of a company to visit and encourage the newly started settlements in Arizona. While crossing the Colorado River at Lee's Ferry, the boat containing his traveling wagon and outfit and a number of the party, was capsized and thrown into the rushing and turbulent stream. He was only an indifferent swimmer, but though weighed down with his boots and clothing, he calmly struck out for the shore, reaching it without wetting his necktie. He always regarded his escape as miraculous, feeling as though unseen hands were supporting him. Bishop Roundy, who was regarded as an expert swimmer, was drowned, and the whole outfit was swept away and lost. In 1877, President Wells was at St. George, and offered the dedicatory prayer at the opening of the St. George Temple. He was also present at the dedication of the Logan and Manti Temples. In December, 1854, Counselor Wells crossed the ocean again, and presided over the European Mission, visiting the churches throughout the British Isles and also in Scandinavia, Germany, and Switzerland. His health was feeble but he labored energetically until his release in January, 1887, when he returned to the United States, and after visiting relatives in the East, reached his home again in July of that year, and was joyfully welcomed by his family and friends. When the Manti Temple was completed and dedicated he was appointed, May 1888, to take charge as President. Here he was in a congenial element. The salvation of the dead was the chief attraction to him in the doctrines expounded to him by Joseph Smith the Prophet, and led to his investigation and acceptance of the Gospel. He officiated in the Temple and performed his duties as Counselor to the Twelve until stricken with the illness which culminated in his death. He came to this city on the 14th of March, and received every attention that loving hearts and hands could bestow. He had suffered for many years with a painful physical ailment, but his heroic nature and strong will enabled him to surmount the difficulties it occasioned. Pleuro-pneumonia supervened and at one o'clock, March 24th, he peacefully departed, being without pain and conscious to the last. Brother Wells had seven wives, six of whom survive him, by whom he had thirty-seven children, of whom twenty-four— thirteen sons and eleven daughters, are living, and he leaves twenty-five living grandchildren. Daniel H. Wells would have been a prominent character in any community. Standing six feet in height, with prominent features and organs of perception, his appearance was striking, while his manner was unassuming. Apparently stern in his demeanor he was really one of the kindest of men, full of sympathy and affection, ready to aid the distressed and with a heart so big that he would welcome the world to partake of his hospitality and share with him whatever he had. His house was always open to his many friends, and while acting as Mayor of the city he entertained many distinguished visitors, both Americans and foreigners, who respected him for his virtues, while disagreeing with his views on religion. His faith in God and in the system called "Mormonism" was unbounded, and his integrity to the principles of the Gospel was unwavering. His testimony to the divine mission of Joseph Smith was powerful, and from the time he received it by the manifestation of the Holy Spirit, he never doubted it or feared to face the opposition of its enemies. His was a noble spirit and he performed a noble work on the earth. Brother Wells has gone to his rest. It was no doubt a joyful welcome that he received, beyond the veil, from Joseph and Hyrum, Brigham and Heber, Parley and Orson, and the rest of the Apostles and Saints who preceded him into the spirit world. He has finished his work and will surely receive his reward. He will live in the memory of many thousands and his name will be perpetuated on earth, and will shine in the history of the Church and the archives of heaven. And when the glad morning of the resurrection dawns he will come forth to meet his Redeemer, for he will be among those who are Christ's at His coming, and with his loved ones will enter into his glory and receive the crown of Eternal Lives! The Funeral. From nine o'clock Sunday morning March 29th, until the body of President Daniel H. Wells was taken from his residence. No. 140 A Street, to the Tabernacle, a great many friends called to take a last look at the face of the respected dead. After the large number who availed themselves of this opportunity had passed, the family, the pall-bearers and others who formed the escort of the body, took up the line of march and reached the Tabernacle close upon the stroke of noon. For nearly two hours before then, a continuous stream of people poured into the mammoth edifice, until the time arrived for opening the services. The great gallery as well as the main body of the building, was thrown open. Notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, which could scarcely have been more disagreeable, the structure was nearly filled, there being probably seven thousand people present. Had the weather been fine it is doubtful if the Tabernacle would have held those who would have turned out to testify, by their presence, their respect for the departed, and sympathy for those more immediately bereaved by his demise. The interior of the building had a beautiful appearance, especially to those who were in the auditorium. There was no aspect of gloom, which is too frequently characteristic of occasions of this kind. The impression conveyed by the picture presented was such as is made by an exhibit of the emblems and real presence of peace, purity and beauty. The stands were decorated. They, including the breastwork and stairways leading to them, were draped with exquisite taste and skill, but not a vestige of black was visible among the embellishments. The drapery was formed by a wealth of delicate white cashmere cloth, festooned with bows of white satin ribbon, while white tassels hung gracefully at appropriate intervals. The fronts of the pulpits were neatly relieved with sprigs of evergreen, while at every available point were living flowers, which seemed to smile in their native beauty as they posed gracefully over their respective vases, which were also clothed in spotless white. The committee who attended to the decorations of the occasion could not well have done their work with greater skill or more refinement of taste. Of the Genera! Authorities of the Church seated on the stands there were, of the First Presidency, Wilford Woodruff and George Q. Cannon; of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Lorenzo Snow, Franklin D. Richards, Francis M. Lyman, John Henry Smith, Heber J. Grant, John W. Taylor, Anthon H. Lund, and Abraham H. Cannon ; Patriarch John Smith; of the First Seven Presidents of Seventies, Jacob Gates, Seymour B. Young, C. D. Fjeldsted, John Morgan, B. H. Roberts, and George Reynolds; of the Presiding Bishopric, William B. Preston, Robert T. Burton and John R. Winder. There were also, of local authorities, President Angus M. Cannon and Counselors Joseph E. Taylor and Charles W. Penrose, besides a great number of Presidents of Stakes and other leading brethren from various parts of the Territory. Almost the entire body of workers in the Manti Temple, who had been associated in that capacity with Brother Wells, were among those present. As the body, escorted by the family and carried by the pall-bearers, entered the Tabernacle, the great mass of people arose and reverently remained standing until the casket was placed on the table connected with the lowest stand, and the family were seated adjacent to and in front of it. The casket was in harmony with the decorative drapery, being pure white, beautifully mounted with silver. Over and around it were a number of elegant floral emblems, in a variety of forms. Among them were that of a harp, a crown, a sickle and sheaf, and a pillow on which was the word "Rest." But the most striking of all was a tastefully arranged bouquet surmounted by a snow-white dove. This was placed immediately over the casket. Simultaneously with the appearance of the remains at the entrance of the building, the organ, under the capable manipulation of Professor Jos. J. Daynes, rolled out, with deep solemnity, the requiem of the dead. It should also be mentioned that the front of the magnificent instrument was draped in the prevailing white, and immediately over the seat of the performer hung a life-like portrait of Brother Wells. The services were opened by President George Q. Cannon, who announced that the choir would sing the hymn by Eliza R. Snow: Thou dost not weep, to weep alone; The broad bereavement seems to fall Unheeded and unfelt by none, He was beloved, beloved by all. But lo! what joy salutes our grief! Bright rainbows crown the tearful gloom; Hope, hope eternal, brings relief! Faith sounds a triumph o'er the tomb. It soothes our sorrow, says to thee. The Lord in chast'ning comes to bless: God is thy God, He says He’ll be A father to the fatherless. 'Tis well with the departed one; His heaven-lit lamp was shining bright: And when his mortal day went down, His spirit fled where reigns no night. 'Tis meet to die as he has died; He smiled amid death's conquered gloom, While angels waited by his side, To bear a kindred spirit home. Vain are the trophies wealth can give! His mem'ry needs no sculptor's art; He's left a name—his virtues live, Graved on the tablets of the heart. The opening prayer was offered by Elder William C. Dunbar as follows: O God, our Eternal Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, thy Son, we present ourselves before thee at this time, and pray thee, in thy mercy and goodness, that thou wouldst look down upon us. We pray, O Lord, that thou wouldst grant unto us thy Spirit this morning while we are assembled together upon this occasion to show our respect for one of thy servants who has departed. We desire, O Lord, that thy blessing may be upon us while we are thus assembled together, that those that shall speak may be inspired by the Holy Ghost to speak such words as shall be for the comfort and consolation of those who are afflicted and who mourn. It has been said that there is a time to mourn, and a time to weep; and although we do not mourn as those that are without hope, yet we feel sad, our Father, in having to part with this our brother and thy servant, who has stood by thy cause and kingdom for many years that are past. But we rejoice to know, O Lord, that we live in the day and age of the world when thou hast restored the Gospel in its fulness and in its power, and made us acquainted with the glorious principles connected therewith, even in regard to immortality and eternal life in thy kingdom. We desire to thank thee, O Lord, that we live in the day and age of the world when thou hast restored that Gospel in its fulness, with its promises, and its blessings, and its sealing powers, in connection with thy Priesthood which thou hast restored in these the latter days. And we pray, O Lord, that thy Spirit may rest upon us, and upon those who are afflicted and who mourn, that they may realize. Heavenly Father, that all is well, and feel to say. Let thy will be done^ not ours. And we ask thee not only to bless those present this morning, but wherever thy people may be called upon, under like circumstances to mourn for those that depart, we pray that the spirit of consolation, the spirit of hope, and even the spirit of joy, may rest upon them—joy, because of the hopes and the prospects that are before us and the promises that have been sealed upon our heads through the power of the Holy Priesthood. We ask thee, O Lord, to bless all the interests of thy Kingdom. Bless the Presidency of thy Church. Inspire them with thy spirit, O Lord. Grant unto them wisdom and understanding suitable to the circumstances in which they are placed, that they may guide the ship of Zion in that way that shall be according to thy will, and for the glory of thy name and the establishment of thy great kingdom upon the earth. Bless each Counselor, and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and all the quorums of thy priesthood, in all its ramifications, from the highest to the lowest, and from the least to the greatest, with all thy Saints and people; that thy spirit and power may rest upon them, and a desire to serve thee and to keep thy commandments, that thy purposes may be fulfilled upon the earth. Bless those who are present this morning, and thy servants who shall address us, and those that shall sing, that our offerings this morning, and our services and worship, may be acceptable unto thee, and that the blessing of peace may rest upon us. We ask thee, O Lord, to overrule all things to the end that thy name may be glorified, and thy kingdom come, when thy will shall be done on earth as it is done in heaven, and when all shall know thee from the least to the greatest, and when there shall be none to molest upon the earth, but when righteousness and truth shall fill the same, even as the waters fill the channels of the great deep. We feel our weakness, O Lord, in calling upon thee at this time; but wilt thou pardon our weaknesses and our frailties, and accept of these our prayers; for we ask everything in the name of Jesus, thy Son, even so, Amen. The choir then sang that most beautiful production from the pen of Henry W. Naisbitt: Rest for the weary soul, Rest, for the aching head, Rest on the hill-side, rest With the great uncounted dead. Rest, for the battle's o'er, Rest, for the race is run. Rest where the gates are closed With each evening's setting sun. Peace, where no strife intrudes. Peace, where no quarrels come, Peace, for the end is there Of our wild life's busy hum. Peace, the oppressed are free, Rest, oh ye weary, rest; For the angels guard those well Who sleep on their mother's breast. Peace, there is music's sound, Peace, till the rising sun Of the resurrection morn Proclaims life's victory won. PRESIDENT WILFORD WOODRUFF then spoke as follows: In the providence of God we are again called upon to pay our last respects and to attend to the burial of another one of the Apostles of the Lamb of God, raised up in the last dispensation and fulness of times. In the few remarks which I shall make this morning I shall not attempt to enter into the history or life, particularly, of Counselor Wells. This has already been presented through the press, and will be fully, perhaps, by those who may follow me. It is sufficient for me to say that Brother Wells has been in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints over forty-five years. He has been closely allied and connected with all the Prophets and Apostles that have been identified with this Church during that period of his life. He has been true and faithful to the Church, to the Kingdom of God, to the inhabitants of the earth, the Presidencies of the Church, and to the Apostles during this period of his life. It is known to the Latter-day Saints — many of them at least—of the diligent labor which he has been called to pass through during his sojourn in the Church and Kingdom of God. This Church has been organized sixty-one years the sixth of the coming month. During that period the Lord has raised up Prophets and Apostles, Elders and Saints, many of whom have laid the foundation of the Church and Kingdom of God on the earth and have labored therein. But time has called them to the other side of the veil. After finishing their work here in the flesh, the Lord has called them home; and when they pass to the other side of the veil their missions are not closed; they have a work to perform there, as well as they have while tabernacling in the flesh on the earth. For some cause and reason unknown to me, I have lived to attend the funerals and follow to the grave a great share of the Prophets and Apostles and many of the Saints who have labored in this Church in their day and generation. I will express myself here to my friends, as I have done on many occasions, with regard to funerals, with regard to death, and with regard to going into the spirit world. I have never felt to mourn in my spirit to follow any Prophet, any Apostle, any Saint of the living God to the grave, who has been true and faithful to God, who has been true and faithful to His covenants, who has received the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the ordinances thereof and the Holy Priesthood. Such men and women have filled their mission here upon earth with honor, with labor, with love, until they have been called home. They have died in the faith, and they will receive a crown of glory. Those have been my feelings in the death of President Young, Brother Kimball, Brother Taylor, the Twelve Apostles, and all men who have received the Gospel of Christ and been true and faithful in that mission. There is an eternal reality—which the whole world will find out—in life. There is an eternal reality in death. There is an eternal reality in the resurrection, and in the future judgments, and in God's dealing with all men in the future according to the deeds done in the body; and when a man or woman, who has entered into covenant with the Lord, who has received the Gospel and the ordinances thereof, and been true and faithful in his or her day and generation, has been called home into the spirit world, where is the man, who comprehends these principles, that can mourn for that brother or sister? Here lies before us the tabernacle of Counselor Daniel H. Wells. His death has been sudden to us. I did not know that he was sick, or that he was in the city, until about two days before his death. Well, we mourn his loss. We feel his loss. All those associated with him do. We feel the loss of men occupying such positions as he has done. His position has been very responsible. He has magnified it unto the end. Now, when Brother Wells' spirit left his body, what was his condition? Well, I have my faith and my views with regard to it. When his spirit left his body he met with a corps of friends ready to receive him—those friends with whom he has dwelt, with whom he has labored, with whom he has toiled in building up the Church and Kingdom of God on the earth. There is rejoicing when the spirit of a Saint of the Living God enters into the spirit world and meets with the Saints who have gone before him. Brethren and sisters, we are not here in the flesh upon uncertainty. We are here upon a mission. We have been kept in the spirit world until the day and generation in which we live, and we have been called forth to tabernacle here in the flesh. We have heard the Gospel. We have believed it. We have received it. We have received the ordinances thereof. We have a testimony before high heaven of the truth of these eternal principles. All the unbelief of wicked men or devils on the face of the earth cannot take these things from our hearts. We know they are true by the revelations of God, and by the inspiration of the Almighty, through the Holy Ghost, the Comforter. Therefore, we have a great deal to encourage us and to comfort us. Of course the family of Brother Wells—his wives, his sons and his daughters, his relatives—all feel his loss. But when we contemplate and look forward to the future, and realize the day is not far distant when Jesus Christ himself will come in the clouds of heaven to reward every man according to the deeds done in the body, then will come forth the resurrection of the just, and this man whose tabernacle is here today, will come forth out of his grave, his body will become immortal, and he will stand in the midst of the Gods, of God the Father. God the Son, and all the righteous and holy beings who have kept the same law, no matter what age of the world they have lived in. Then will come forth the reward that the veil hides from your faces and mine to-day—the reward of. those men and women who have entered into covenant with the Lord, and who have received the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Brother Wells is happy. He would not come back here if he had the privilege. He has lived to a good old age, and has gone down into the grave like a shock of corn fully ripe, and with the harness upon him. He and President Young were about the same age at death. Well, we feel many times as we did in the days of Joseph. The Church felt then as though they could not live without, him. But these things are in the hands of God. I would say to the family and to the friends of Brother Wells, let your hearts be comforted. All is right. Brother Wells has as much power to work and labor for your interest on the other side of the veil as he has been able to do here. He has performed a work here for the living and for the dead. He has gone to the other side of the veil to receive his reward. So I say to the Latter-day Saints, let us be true and faithful to God and our covenants. We are here upon a mission. Some are taken; some are left. I have never seen a year that I know of in this Church when there have been as many aged men called away, many of them suddenly, as in the year that has passed and gone. Of course it only remains for those of us who are left to try to do our duty the remaining days that we have to spend here. But I want to say to all the Latter-day Saints, have no fears with regard to the Kingdom of God, nor the Church of Christ, nor the work of God. It is true. Zion is true. The dispensation is true. The Holy Priesthood is true. Therefore, let us be true in our labors and labor while the day lasts; keep the commandments of God, and prepare ourselves for that which is to come. Our brethren are busy on the other side of the veil, and they have a work to do to prepare themselves for the coming of the Son of Man. All men who go into the spirit world, and who bear the holy Priesthood, will continue their labors. Their works will follow them. Their works will not cease when they lay their tabernacles down here in the tomb. Their spirits in the spirit world mingle with those whom it is their right and privilege to mingle with, and the work will continue. Therefore I say to the family and to the Latter-day Saints, God bless you all. Let us be true. Let us be faithful. Let us keep the commandments of God. Let us labor while the day lasts, for soon the night will come when no man can work. My brethren that follow me will occupy the time to enter into these things more fully with regard to Brother Wells, as they may be led by the Holy Spirit. I felt I could not do justice to my feelings without making a few remarks upon this occasion; but I do not feel to spend a great deal of time in talking to the Latter- day Saints I ask God my Heavenly Father to bless you—to bless the family, bless the Elders of Israel, bless the Apostles, and all the quorums and Saints. As I said before, let us be true to our covenants, true to our God, and true to the work we are engaged in; for we ourselves will soon be called home, to follow in the same path; our bodies will be laid in the tomb, as Brother Wells' is going to be today, and we will get through with our mission unto which we have been sent here. I thank God for the Gospel. I thank God for the light of heaven, and for the truths of eternal life which have been revealed from heaven for the exaltation, glory and salvation of the children of men. I pray God, my Heavenly Father, that His blessings will attend us, that we may be sustained until we get through with our labor in the flesh, that we may inherit eternal life; for Jesus' sake. Amen. APOSTLE ANTHON H. LUND. Brethren and sisters, we have met this morning to pay our last respects to our beloved Brother Wells, who has departed this life. I have listened with much interest to the encouraging words spoken by President Woodruff, and feel to endorse them. I have, during the last three years, been intimately associated with President Wells in the Manti Temple. I have enjoyed these years of labor in the Temple. I have enjoyed his society. I have felt that he was a man of God, and have listened with much interest to thi counsel that he has given to the Saints. We, the workers of the Manti Temple, will miss Brother Wells perhaps more than any others who are not connected with him by family ties. We have learned to love him—to love him for his innate goodness, his kindness and his amiability. We have loved to listen to him and to follow the counsels that he has given us; and the Saints who have visited Manti Temple and who have labored there will remember with pleasure Brother Wells, whom they met there. It was pleasant in the morning to meet him, shake hands with him; see the kind smile upon his face, and feel that you were at home with him. It was pleasant in our meetings in the morning, in the Temple, to listen to his discourses— his short addresses. They were gems of wisdom, and will be treasured as such by all the Saints who heard them. The young who have come to the Temple to be married, and have had him perform the ordinance, will remember with pride in after years, that they have been sealed by Brother Wells, and will tell this to their children. I have often looked upon him and been pleased to see him officiate in the ordinances in the Temple. He filled my ideal of a High Priest of God; and I believe this is the feeling of all who have seen him labor there. He was devoted to the work performed in the Temples. He told me that although he loved the Mormons when they first came to Nauvoo, and sympathized with them in their sufferings, yet he was not impressed much with their doctrines until one day he heard the Prophet Joseph preach on baptism for the dead. This doctrine gave him a testimony of the truth. He said to himself, "this is true; " and he made a resolve that he would devote his life to the work for his dead kindred. This doctrine seemed to him so broad, so full of charity; and impressed him in this manner. One day as he was walking in the streets of Nauvoo, President Kimball came up behind him, touched him on the shoulder, and said: "Brother Wells, you are thinking of joining the church, and your will do so, and become one of us." Brother Wells was startled. He had not mentioned to a soul what he felt concerning Mormonism, and wondered how Brother Kimball could tell him his very thoughts. He did not join the people until they had suffered the utmost from persecution. He did not cast his lot with the Saints because he expected to gain any earthly returns, and wealth or honor, but because he had the testimony of the truth and knew that this was the people of God, and he was willing to cast his lot with them. He carried out the resolve that he had made of laboring for the dead. It fell to his lot to labor in the Endowment House for years, and at the dedication of the Manti Temple, he was called as president of that temple. The beautiful words that Paul addressed to his beloved disciple Timothy shortly before his death, Brother Wells could apply to himself Paul says: "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." Brother Wells could say this truthfully. He did fight a good fight. I believe his course upon the earth was finished; that he had filled the mission God intended him to fill here upon the earth; and he kept the faith. The labors in the temple are labors of love and faith, unselfish labors, and he was devoted to the labors. Few men in the church have had as much labor done for their dead friends as Brother Wells. He spent means for this purpose. He wanted to have the labor done for his dead friends. And now that his spirit has passed the gates of death, he has no doubt met with many of his kindred—many who have already received the truth—who will thank him for what he has done for them; and no doubt he will find many who have not received the truth with whom he will have the privilege of laboring to convert them and bring them to a knowledge of the ^ truth. The integrity of Brother Wells, his faithfulness, his love of this work, will be an inspiration to coming generations. May God bless his family, bless those who mourn for him, and comfort them, is my prayer, in the name of Jesus. Amen. APOSTLE FRANKLIN D. RICHARDS spoke as follows: Beloved friends, I share with you the loss we have sustained by the departure of this great and good man, who has finished his earthly course, and whose remains are here with us today. I was glad to know him fifty years ago in the city of Nauvoo, and can speak of the kindness which he exhibited towards an afflicted and distressed people, driven from the State of Missouri, in deep sorrow, and left without a home. When the Prophet Joseph obtained deliverance from his guardsmen and arrived at Commerce he found in Brother Wells one who received him kindly, in conjunction with a few other proprietors of an extensive tract of land in that region, and the Prophet was thereby enabled to secure a place for the Saints to begin to dwell in. He obtained from Brother Wells a portion of the land on which the city of Nauvoo is situated, on reasonable terms. When any little variance arose among the people, he who was then the respected and beloved Squire Wells settled their difficulties and gave satisfaction to all concerned. I must not now stop to go into details; but I would like to tell you that he was much beloved by the Prophet Joseph. The fact that Brother Wells was with the Saints in the various circumstances which attended them during their sojourn from 1839 to 1846, in Nauvoo, created in the hearts of all the people an affection for him that has intensified ever since. President Wells—as we knew him and loved to call him—had occasion to feel of himself and to be felt of by the Lord. There is a time in the history of all men, who have this Gospel brought to them among the Gentiles, when they have to choose that day whom they will serve. As one said of old, "If Baal be God serve him; if the Lord be God serve Him." In those days when the Saints were being driven out and started for the valleys of these mountains, Squire Wells found himself brought to this position. He had to sum up the matter and make up his mind whether he would cast his lot with God's people or take his chances continuously with the world, as before. The people had come to love him, and the principles which he had heard had sunk deep into his heart, but the great question of fixing his interest with God's people was not yet determined therein. These things do occur, and we have one grand instance of this in the case of Moses, when it was decreed that all the male children should be killed. He was found by the princess concealed among the bulrushes; he was taught in all the learning of the Egyptians—their mythology, all that pertained to the education of the Egyptians and the Greeks; he was learned in military affairs and became a successful warrior, and the mother of his adoption intended him for the throne. Moses had this before him, but the question arose m his mind: "Shall I cast my lot with the Egyptians and stay with them, or shall I be true to my kin and remain with my own people?'' These troubles which belong to the human mind had their place in Moses, and Paul says: "He chose by the power of faith rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season." So with Brother Daniel. He had to leave a wife, a son, a home. These things had weighed in his mind. He summed them all up and determined to cast his lot with God's people; and he followed them out to these mountains. I rejoice greatly in having had the acquaintance of Brother Wells through all the varied experiences from then till now. We have known him as a superintendent of public works right here on this block, building the early part of the Temple, and in other labor. We have known him, too, in the days of pinching want; always careful in his dealings with his brethren, whom he loved to please, doing them all the good he could; and I have never yet discovered a man or woman who could say that he wantonly lacerated his or her feelings or wounded their hearts. We have seen him as Mayor of this city in the early days, when we had peace here, and also when the disturbing elements began 10 come in. How true he was in all his management, and how well the city was kept with the small police force which used to exist in it! Peace was so well maintained then that a woman could walk through the streets as safely in the middle of the night as at noonday. »We have seen him promoted to the highest military rank known in the existence of a Territory of the United States, and we have seen him with his officers gathering men and means and going to various positions in the Territory to subdue the occasional hostilities, which occurred with the Indians. But he was most careful lest there should be any bloodshed, and the aborigines came to learn, through his kind though firm treatment, that this people were their true friends; for he taught them that it was better to fight them with tobacco and biscuit than with powder and lead. His officers all loved him, and the longer his association with them the deeper became their attachment to him. We have known him, too, as a foreign missionary. Twice has he been to European countries preaching the Gospel, proclaiming it both verbally and through the press. His acquaintance among the human family was extensive. All Israel seems to know him today, and he knew all Israel; for when he came to be a counselor to the First Presidency, he traveled and labored throughout the length and breadth of the Territory. Some of us have had the satisfaction of enjoying those sacred seasons with him. And how he loves them! How he sought by night and day to interest all God's people! He never appeared to set anything before this purpose of his heart. And then he was called to labor in the Endowment House. My own experience with him enables me to say that we have very few men in Israel who understand and comprehend the law of God and can make so careful and faithful an application of it to the multifarious conditions of the human family as did President Daniel H. Wells. His great experience in this enabled him to do it with love and affection, by which he technically maintained every right and every interest of all concerned. But I am occupying too much time. I love to dwell upon the virtues and excellencies of such a man, and would like to say to the young men of Israel: Read the biographical sketch of President Wells and see if you can set your mark and standard, in the years that you may live on the earth, as high as he has done. As a patriarch he was the father of a numerous family. It is a matter of public notice that he was the father of thirty-seven children, twenty-four of whom are now living, and has twenty-five living grandchildren. Look at this! He at the age of seventy-six leaving this commencement of national and family honor and glory behind him! We have no record that Father Abraham, though he lived to the age of one hundred and twenty years, left so many souls upon the earth; yet it was promised that his seed should become as the sand of the seashore, like the stars of heaven, innumerable. With such a sowing as Brother Wells has given us, what shall the reaping of the harvest be in the countless ages of eternity? Then he has passed through all the ordinances and attained unto all the offices of the Priesthood. Having now departed, is he not among "the spirits of the just made perfect? " Having been permitted to do work for his dead here, is it not a glorious thought that he can go now and hunt them up and inform them of what he has been doing? He was a personal friend of the Prophet, the Patriarch Hyrum and all the Apostles who have departed this life one after another, and he attended the funerals of most of them. What joy he must find today in meeting and associating with them! Great and glorious have been his labors. Let us contemplate the fact that he is now with a considerable portion of his family there —that he is with the multitude of his generation gone before. Perhaps he has more kindred there than he has left here. My dear friends and neighbors, widows, and sons, and daughters, all those connected with this good man, I would ask, is not the knowledge of these things a satisfaction to you—one that must assuage your grief now that he has gone? We must all go soon; then why not today as well as any other? Brother Wells having filled a life of such usefulness and greatness, let me ask which of his sons will so emulate the deeds of his father that he will equal his course of life here? Shall we not, with such an example before us, try to do better than we have yet done? May the Spirit of the Father be upon the sorrowing ones, abide with them, and be ever near to whisper to them words of comfort and consolation; and may God guide them in that honorable course until they reach that happy end to which Brother Wells has attained. We cannot mourn for any sin of omission or commission on his part; but we shall feel his absence keenly. We need more such men; but the Lord will order all these things, and we must acknowledge His hand in whatever may betide us. May our end be like unto his; may our rest be also glorious. May the Lord grant this to all who seek for it, for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen. The choir sang: O, my Father, thou that dwellest In the high and glorious place! When shall I regain thy presence. And again behold thy face? In thy holy habitation, Did my spirit once reside? In my first primeval childhood, Was I nurtured near thy side? For a wise and glorious purpose Thou has placed me here on earth. And withheld the recollection Of my former friends and birth; Yet oft-times a secret something Whispered, You're a stranger here; And I felt that I had wandered From a more exalted sphere. I had learned to call thee Father, Through thy Spirit from on high; But, until the Key of Knowledge Was restored, I knew not why. In the heavens are parents single? No; the thought makes reason stare! Truth is reason; truth eternal, Tells me, I've a mother there. PRESIDENT GEORGE Q. CANNON. "I will read a portion of Section Seventy-six of the book of Doctrine and Covenants: And again, we bear record, for we saw and heard, and this is the testimony of the gospel of Christ concerning them who come forth in the resurrection of the just: They are they who received the testimony of Jesus and believed on His name and were baptised after the manner of His burial, being buried in the water in His name, and this according to the commandment which He has given. That by keeping the commandments they might be washed and cleansed from all their sins, and receive the Holy Spirit by the laying on of the hands of him who is ordained and sealed unto this power. And who overcome by faith, and are sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise, which the Father sheds forth upon all those who are just and true. They are they who are the church of the first born. They are they into whose hands the Father has given all things -- They are they who are Priests and Kings, who have received of His fulness and of His glory. And are Priests of the Most High, after the order of Melchisedek, which was after the order of Enoch, which was after the order of the Only Begotten Son; Wherefore, as it is written, they are Gods, even the sons of God -- Wherefore all things are theirs, whether life or death, or things present, or things to come, all are theirs, and they are Christ's and Christ is God's. And they shall overcome all things; Wherefore let no man glory in man, but rather let him glory in God, who shall subdue all enemies under his feet -- These shall dwell in the presence of God and his Christ for ever and ever. These are they whom he shall bring with him, when He shall come in the clouds of heaven, to reign on the earth over His people. These are they who shall have part in the first resurrection. These are they who shall come forth in the resurrection of the just. These are they who are come unto Mount Zion, and unto the city of the living God. the heavenly place, the holiest of all. These are they who have come to an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly and church of Enoch, and of the first born. These are they whose names are written in heaven, where God and Christ are the judge of all. These are they who are just men made perfect through Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, who wrought out this perfect atonement through the shedding of His own blood. These are they whose bodies are celestial, whose glory is that of the sun, even the glory of God, the highest of all, whose glory the sun of the firmament is written of as being typical. In the words that I have read in your hearing is fully described the future of this our beloved brother whose remains are before us. We have it in the language of the Son of God himself, and in that description we can perceive some of the glory that God has m store for those who are faithful, who have fought the good fight of faith. In coming here to-day I would much rather have sat still and listened to others. Language seems to be inadequate to convey the thoughts that now fill my heart. At times silence is the greatest eloquence; though it would not be right or appropriate on such an occasion for all to remain silent. We owe it to the memory of our departed friend and brother that we should give expression to the feelings of our hearts concerning his labors and his life. We owe it to those who live, that we should give utterance also to our estimate of his character, that the lesson of his life may not be lost upon those whom he has left behind, but that they may feel encouraged to emulate his deeds, the purity of his character, the grandeur of the principles which animated him in his mortal career. Brother Wells was a mortal man; therefore, like all of us, he had his weaknesses. But with these. failings there were many traits indicating great strength of character. He was a man who left his impress upon his associates and upon society, and I feel that the world is the better because Daniel H. Wells lived in it. I feel that humanity has been uplifted by his works, by his example, by his whole life ever since he became acquainted with the truth. He has not lived in vain. Look at him from what ever standpoint you may, you will find something to admire in the man. If there was one characteristic that he possessed more prominent than another, it was his fidelity. He was true to his God; he was ready to lay down his life at any time for that which he conceived to be right. I do not suppose that a more perfect man, so far as physical bravery is concerned, was to be found anywhere. He had unflinching valor, not only physical, but also that higher and rarer quality, moral courage. He possessed these elements to a remarkable degree. He was true to God, true to his religion, and true to his fellow-men. We are noted, as a people, for the strength of our friendship toward each other, and in this regard Brother Wells stood out conspicuously. He never deserted his friends. The more they were assailed, and the more unfavorably they were talked about, the closer he clung to them. He carried this, indeed into all the relations of life. He was a man faithful to his brethren, faithful to those who were humble, and whom he might have ignored had he chosen. Then again, his love for his family was beyond expression. President Wells, in his boyhood, did not have the chances for education which young men now possess. He was born at a time when educational facilities were not such as they are now. But he was a student all his life, a great reader, a man of strong intellect. He did not read superficially, however, neither did he adopt the views of writers unless his own judgment approved of that which they said. He was an independent thinker in this respect, and possessed literary ability in a marked degree. Years ago Dr. Bernhizel and myself exchanged views about Brother Wells, when he was in the habit of writing papers which were not credited to him, but which, nevertheless, were the emanations of his pen. Dr. Bernhizel used then to observe how extraordinary it was that one having had so few educational advantages, was able to prepare such masterly documents as he did. I have been similarly struck myself. As a speaker he was not so strong as he was as a writer, and yet how often has it been said that the reports of his discourses always formed delightful reading. He conveyed his thoughts tersely and lucidly. Every one who read his discourses was pleased with them; the matter was far better than the manner of delivery. Brother Wells was a man of great intellect, therefore a man of power among his fellows. As to his future we need have no concern, though his death has brought us sadness, because we have been deprived of his society. He had been a sufferer for some time. We had felt for some years that he might pass away at almost any time. When he was on his last European mission, word came frequently respecting the precarious condition of his health. It was this, in fact, which hastened his release, it being thought that unless he soon returned he would perhaps die away from home. And when he did return he was quite feeble. It was a happy inspiration that prompted the selection of Brother Wells as President of the Manti Temple. I believe this added years to his life; it gave him occupation of the most congenial kind. It placed him in a position where he could employ himself and where he could feel that he was doing a great amount of good. He was not rusting out, dying unnoticed; the position was one which enabled him to be useful to others and to exercise his powers. The last time I visited Manti was in company with Brother Lyman, a few weeks ago. There was a conference in Sanpete, at Ephraim, and before it concluded we decided to go to Manti, and hold a meeting in the evening. President Wells had not been able to attend the conference as the weather was stormy, and it was not fit for him to go out. We, however, joined him at the Manti Temple and took our meal with him. I remarked to Brother Lyman at that time that I feared Brother Wells was not long for this life. I could see a change in him; that he was more feeble than I had observed him for some time. Strangely enough, he came here without our learning of it. We were very busy at the time, and when the news of his illness first reached us, we supposed that he was still at Manti. It was not until a remark was made to the private secretary to send a dispatch to Manti to learn of his condition, that we heard he was in this city. It was a surprise to us. I last saw him three hours before his death, and although I knew how feeble he was, I little thought he was going to die so soon. He was able to talk the evening before his death, when some of us visited him. He appeared cheerful, had a good many pleasant things to say, and was a little inclined to joke. In fact, his manner led me to hope that perhaps he would pull through. But when I saw him the next morning it seemed as though a very serious change had taken place; yet I had little idea that within three hours he would depart from us. Brethren and sisters, I thank God for the men that he has raised up in our generation; I thank God for such a man as Daniel H. Wells; I have thanked Him that I was born in the time of such men, and that we have been associated with such as Joseph Smith, Hyrum Smith, Brigham Young and a host of others whose names might be mentioned. I loved these men as I would the angels, because I know the purity of their motives. I know their courage, that they were determined to keep the commandments of God. When such men pass away, I feel that it is a great loss to us, not only as a community, but personally. I am thankful that we have some still spared to us, that we have the benefit of their experience and the advantage of their counsel in our midst—men who have been true and faithful all the days of their lives. After the martyrdom of Joseph Smith, President Young, in addressing a congregation, made a remark which, though I was but a boy at the time, so fastened itself upon my mind that I have never forgotten it. Speaking of Sidney Rigdon and other men in the Church he said, contrasting those men with Rigdon: "There are many among us whose knees have never trembled, whose hands, amidst the greatest perils, have never shaken, whose hearts have never failed." And this is true. There are men among the Latter-day Saints who amidst the greatest perils have never trembled nor thought of wavering, either to the right hand or to the left to save themselves. Daniel H. Wells was one of the most prominent among them all—the peer of the strongest, the peer of the most courageous, the peer of the best men among us. I pray God to bless his posterity; I invoke the blessings of our Eternal Father upon them, that their hearts may be comforted in the midst 01 their distress; for it is a distress to part with such as he. They will miss him, no doubt; but God is able to console them and to fill their hearts with peace and joy. I pray God to bless this congregation, to pour out His Spirit upon us all, to fill us with good and heavenly desires, help us to keep His commandments and do his will, that in the end we may be saved in His kingdom, and receive the blessings that are promised to those who are faithful, which I ask in the name of Jesus. Amen. APOSTLE HEBER J. GRANT Announced that Apostle Moses Thatcher was, much to his regret, on account of illness, unable to be present at these services. The speaker, however, would read a letter which had been received from Brother Thatcher by a member of the family of the deceased: LETTER FROM APOSTLE MOSES THATCHER. Logan, Utah, March 25, 1891. Elder Junius F. Wells, Salt Lake City: Dear Brother—When informed by President Woodruff, by wire, of the death of your father, shortly after its occurrence, I was greatly grieved, surprised and shocked; for up to that moment I had received no intimation of his illness. In his death Israel sustains a great loss, but hosts beyond the veil will rejoice while we mourn. Yourself and the members of your father's family have, in this hour of your deep bereavement, my most sincere sympathy. I am aware of how impotent are words, even though conveying the profound sentiments of hearts moved in sorrow, and yet I know, under such conditions, they at least do no harm if unavailing for good. If I were in a single word to attempt to define true moral courage, I should say that Daniel H. Wells was its personification. We cannot afford to lose such as he; and yet we must bow to the decrees of the Almighty. He goes to his rest, like an ear of corn well ripened. Not many, if indeed any, who have lived in this generation have passed away more respected and beloved than your great and good father. I shall never forget the inspirational remarks made by him in the old Social Hall on the occasion of a Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association gathering there, when he spoke so beautifully about the tread of coming Israel, whose footsteps he could hear, and they were music in his ears. The light of heaven shone in his grand lion-like face, the wrinkles of which were softened and made to glow like rays from the throne of God. The sound of the tread of Israel's approaching triumph and glory will ever be in his ears in the land of peace and eternal progress whither he has gone. This generation has produced no more courageous soul than he, greatest when most humiliated, and grandest when most environed by grave conditions fraught with danger to himself and people, conditions which, in all ages of the world, have made small men smaller, and great men greater. When the history of the great latter-day work shall have been written, its leave will contain no brighter pages than those devoted to the life of Daniel H. Wells. Naturally a leader, military in his genius, how beautiful the thought that his life should be rounded by the loving work which he found in the Manti Temple while directing the hearts of the children to the love of their dead fathers! Modest as a child while here, embarrassment will bring no blush to his cheek when he meets the valiant ones gone before. With Joseph and Hyrum and Brigham and a host of others, he will remain a striking figure among Israel's modern leaders. Ever praying for your peace and happiness and that of each member of your father's family, I remain, with an earnest desire that you may emulate his example to the end, when you too may peacefully rest on the other shore. Your brother in the Gospel, Moses Thatcher. The choir sang the beautiful anthem, "Look up and put your trust in God." The benediction was pronounced by President Lorenzo Snow as follows: "All wise and Holy Father, we return unto thee now, at the close of this interview, our grateful acknowledgments that thou hast permitted us to assemble ourselves together to pay the last tribute of respect unto thy servant, Brother Wells, whom thou hast seen proper to call to thyself. We thank thee. Holy Father, that thou has revealed and made manifest unto us that by pursuing the course that thou hast marked out, and which thy servant Brother Wells has conformed to, we can dwell in thy presence and receive a fulness of thy glory. And may it be with us, Holy Father, as it has been with thy servant whom thou hast called hence —that we will so live and prove our integrity and fidelity before thee, and in the midst of thy people, and before the world, that we may secure that glorious inheritance that we feel, and that thou hast manifested unto us, has been secured by thy servant whom thou hast called to dwell with thee and receive his reward, because of his faithfulness and integrity that he has manifested in the midst of thy people, and the great good that he has accomplished towards moving forward thy work and the salvation of the human family. Holy Father, wilt thou convey consolation and joy unto the hearts of the bereaved, because of the prospects which are before them in again associating with their father, with their brother, and with their husband, in thy presence, in a fulness of glory. O Lord, we ask thee to continue to let thy blessings and favors rest upon us, and thy Holy Spirit to be in our hearts, and be in us a principle of revelation, to reveal unto us thy mind and will in the varied circumstances that surround us, and as we move onward in the scenes of life and in the path of exaltation and glory which thou hast marked out; and eventually, when we have finished our course, that we may have the privilege of dwelling with thee, and receiving that glory which thou hast promised unto the faithful. These blessings, O Lord, we ask in the name of Jesus. Amen. The services throughout were not marred by any incident of a nature to cause the slightest jar. The spirit of consolation and peace pervaded the building, and all assembled seemed to partake of the pacific influence. The beautiful singing by the Tabernacle Choir, under the leadership of Brother Stephens, added a charm to the occasion, harmonizing with the comforting and instructive nature of the addresses of the speakers. While the people were in the building snow descended continuously and was still falling as they emerged from it at the close of the proceedings. The committee on arrangements and their aids attended to the work of forming the procession, according to the published programme, with remarkable celerity and precision. As a result the column was soon moving eastward along South Temple Street toward the cemetery, in the following order: Berry's Martial Band. Pall-Bearers. The Twelve Apostles—as honorary pall-bearers. Hearse. The First Presidency. The Family and Associates. Members of the City Council during the late Mayor's Administration. The First Seven Presidents of the Seventies, Held's Band. Presidents of Stakes and their Counselors. High Councils and High Priests. Quorums of Seventies. Quorums of Elders. Presiding Bishopric. Bishops and Counselors, Priests, Teachers and Deacons. Citizens. The cortege was remarkable for its great length. When the procession reached the cemetery the carriages formed as closely around the grave as practicable. The body was lowered into the tomb and a quartette — Brothers H. G. Whitney, George D. Pyper, John D. Spencer and Heber Goddard—sang, beautifully, and with deep feeling. Not dead but sleepeth! He shall awake again in the presence of a living God. Mourn not, oh weep not, for death has no power. 'Tis but a change to the angel's bright bower. Christ on the cross suffered pain and death for us all; 'Tis not death but sleep; he will wake when the Father calls. Not dead, but sleepeth! He shall awake again in the presence of a living God. Come unto me all; I will give you rest: For the kingdom now is thine; the love of God is everywhere. Glory to God, glory now on high. Weep not for the loved one gone, for the soul can never—never die. Not dead, but sleepeth! He shall awake again in the presence of a living God. Amen. The prayer for the dedication of the grave was offered by Apostle Francis M. Lyman. The earth was then filled in over the mortal remains of a man of sterling qualities. His integrity was beyond question, his sagacity admirable, his devotion to truth sublime, his simplicity unadulterated, his friendship steadfast as the everlasting hills, while every characteristic of his grand individuality was softened by the influence of broad sympathy, which caused him to be hugged closely to the hearts of the people. The Deseret News. The committees having charge of all the arrangements for the funeral were composed of the following, and they acquitted themselves in the most satisfactory manner: Pall-Bearers.—William G. Phillips, Charles Livingston, C. H. Wilcken, B. Y. Hampton, John Smith, William Calder, N. V. Jones, Andrew Smith. On Decoration. — Mrs. Zina D. Young and aids; Mrs. M. I. Home and aids; Mr. Henry Dinwoodey. Escort FOR Family.—C. S. Burton, N. A. Empey. Aids.—Wm. S. Burton, E. A. Smith, Spencer Clawson, R. W. Young, Frank W. Jennings, L. G. Hardy, John Clark, D. McKenzie, J. H. Moyle, John Kirk- man, E. M. Weiler, R. C. Badger. Committee on Arrangements.—R. T. Burton, H. B. Clawson, John R. Winder. |
"Daniel Hanmer Wells." Improvement Era. October 1914. pg. 1095-1095.
DANIEL HANMER WELLS. My first remembrance of "Squire" Wells, whose one hundredth anniversary we celebrate, was in the days of my childhood, during" the troublous times prior to and after the martyrdom of the Prophet. "Squire" Wells was a household name in my father's home, and subsequently in his widow's home, as a friend of the Prophet and of the Church. Young as I was, and bitter as the experiences of those times were, his name, though he was not at that time a member of the Church, was indelibly impressed upon my mind,—as doubtless upon the minds of all who knew him,—as a stanch friend of the Saints, and one most choice and beloved among the prominent men in those times. In 1846, while we were slowly dragging along with ox teams over the rolling prairies of Iowa, "Squire" Wells passed us on his way to the Camp of Israel, on the eastern and western banks of the Missouri, at Council Bluffs and Winter Quarters, the place to which we were also destined. During the experiences of the Church in the subsequent forty years or more (or until his death, March 24, 1891) the name of "Squire" Wells,—undergoing various changes from time to time, such as Elder, Superintendent, General, Mayor, and President Daniel H. Wells,—was inseparably associated with all the interests of the Church, and the development, guidance, and protection of the commonwealth of Utah. In every capacity in which he acted, he was the embodiment of wisdom, integrity, and honor, and a man knowing no fear. As a statesman, he had no superior in the commonwealth, or in the Church. Hon. Jesse N. Smith, a statesman himself, and one of the best read men of Utah and Arizona (which latter was his home), though he was little known, once said in words to this effect: "Since George Washington's time, the United States in my estimation, has produced only two great statesmen; one of whom is Abraham Lincoln, and the other is Daniel H. Wells." President Daniel H. Wells' friendship and love for the Prophet Joseph Smith was like that of the redeemed—immaculate. His friendship for his friends knew no bounds, and would brook no taint. And in such measure he loved his Country and the Church. He was charitable towards his enemies, of whom he had a few, as all strong men have. To know President Daniel H. Wells, was to admire, love, and honor him. Joseph F. Smith. |
PRESIDENT DANIEL H. WELLS
1814-1891 Taken fifty years ago, when he was fifty years of age. |
"Daniel Hanmer Wells." Improvement Era. October 1914. pg. 1165-1166.
Daniel Hanmer Wells
President Daniel H. Wells, whose portrait supplies the frontispiece of the Era, was born at Trenton, Oneida, Co., New York, on the 27th of October, 1814. He died in Salt Lake City, on the 24th of March, 1891.
His family have made a commendable practice of celebrating his birthday by a reunion of all its members annually for over forty years. They were pioneers in this observance. This year being the one hundredth anniversary of his birth, the family is making some extra efforts suitably to commemorate the occasion. Among other things that are being done in honor of their patriarchal ancestor, who gave much of his life to sacred work in the Temples, they have prepared lists of their dead kindred in such numbers that every son and daughter that can do so will have the privilege of officiating for a hundred names.
Then a genealogical and historical family pageant is being arranged in which groups of the children and grandchildren will be shown representing interesting periods and events in the family lineage back to the time of the first American ancestor, Gov. Thomas Wells, of Connecticut, 1636-1660. This period embraces ten generations of which Daniel H. Wells was the sole male representative of the seventh, in the direct line, which would have expired in the eighth had he not embraced the gospel, so-called "Mormonism." Through his conversion and acceptance of all its principles he infused a new life in the old stock, and as a result there are now living over one hundred and fifty of his descendants with their married relations.
President Wells was a great lover of his family, and they in turn, have always loved and honored his memory.
The Latter-day Saints as a people in the : r various fields of endeavor also honored him as their faithful servant, counselor and friend. He was chosen by them to the following offices and positions of trust, and became distinguished in them all, for his capacity, sterling ability and fidelity. He commanded the respect and had the confidence of the people equally in h:s industrial, civil, military and ecclesiastical offices ; and his memory is cherished among them to the present day:
Justice of the Peace and Alderman, Nauvoo, Ill., 1837-1846.
Attorney General, State of Deseret, 1849-50.
Member Utah Legislature, 1851-64; 1880, 1882.
Lieutenant-General Nauvoo Legion, 1852-1887.
Mayor, Salt Lake City, 1866-1876.
Chancellor University of Deseret, 1867-1878.
Second Counselor to President Brigham Young, 1857-1877.
Counselor of the Twelve Apostles, 1877-1891.
Superintendent of Public Works, 1848-1864.
President European Mission, 1864-65; 1884-87.
President Manti Temple, 1888-1891.
Daniel Hanmer Wells
President Daniel H. Wells, whose portrait supplies the frontispiece of the Era, was born at Trenton, Oneida, Co., New York, on the 27th of October, 1814. He died in Salt Lake City, on the 24th of March, 1891.
His family have made a commendable practice of celebrating his birthday by a reunion of all its members annually for over forty years. They were pioneers in this observance. This year being the one hundredth anniversary of his birth, the family is making some extra efforts suitably to commemorate the occasion. Among other things that are being done in honor of their patriarchal ancestor, who gave much of his life to sacred work in the Temples, they have prepared lists of their dead kindred in such numbers that every son and daughter that can do so will have the privilege of officiating for a hundred names.
Then a genealogical and historical family pageant is being arranged in which groups of the children and grandchildren will be shown representing interesting periods and events in the family lineage back to the time of the first American ancestor, Gov. Thomas Wells, of Connecticut, 1636-1660. This period embraces ten generations of which Daniel H. Wells was the sole male representative of the seventh, in the direct line, which would have expired in the eighth had he not embraced the gospel, so-called "Mormonism." Through his conversion and acceptance of all its principles he infused a new life in the old stock, and as a result there are now living over one hundred and fifty of his descendants with their married relations.
President Wells was a great lover of his family, and they in turn, have always loved and honored his memory.
The Latter-day Saints as a people in the : r various fields of endeavor also honored him as their faithful servant, counselor and friend. He was chosen by them to the following offices and positions of trust, and became distinguished in them all, for his capacity, sterling ability and fidelity. He commanded the respect and had the confidence of the people equally in h:s industrial, civil, military and ecclesiastical offices ; and his memory is cherished among them to the present day:
Justice of the Peace and Alderman, Nauvoo, Ill., 1837-1846.
Attorney General, State of Deseret, 1849-50.
Member Utah Legislature, 1851-64; 1880, 1882.
Lieutenant-General Nauvoo Legion, 1852-1887.
Mayor, Salt Lake City, 1866-1876.
Chancellor University of Deseret, 1867-1878.
Second Counselor to President Brigham Young, 1857-1877.
Counselor of the Twelve Apostles, 1877-1891.
Superintendent of Public Works, 1848-1864.
President European Mission, 1864-65; 1884-87.
President Manti Temple, 1888-1891.