George Albert Smith
Born: 4 April 1870
Called to Quorum of the Twelve: 8 October 1903
Called as Superintendent of the YMMIA: 1921
Released from Superintendency of the YMMIA: 1935
Became President of the Twelve: 21 June 1943
Sustained as President of the Church: 21 May 1945
Died: 4 April 1951
Called to Quorum of the Twelve: 8 October 1903
Called as Superintendent of the YMMIA: 1921
Released from Superintendency of the YMMIA: 1935
Became President of the Twelve: 21 June 1943
Sustained as President of the Church: 21 May 1945
Died: 4 April 1951
Biographical Articles
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 3
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 4
Juvenile Instructor, 1 January 1904, Elder George A. Smith
Young Woman's Journal, July 1919, George Albert Smith, President of the European Mission
Improvement Era, October 1921, George Albert Smith, General Superintendent of the YMMIA
Improvement Era, March 1932, Greatness in Men - George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, August 1934, Supt. George Albert Smith Awarded the Silver Buffalo
Instructor, October 1934, Elder George Albert Smith
Relief Society Magazine, May 1940, Elder George Albert Smith Observes Birthday
Improvement Era, July 1942, New Honor Accorded Elder George Albert Smith
Instructor, February 1943, Boyhood Experiences - George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, August 1943, President George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, August 1943, President George Albert Smith
Instructor, August 1943, Our Cover Picture
Relief Society Magazine, September 1943, Elder George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, June 1945, President George Albert Smith Becomes Eighth President of the Church
Improvement Era, July 1945, President George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, July 1945, George Albert Smith, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Relief Society Magazine, July 1945, President George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, December 1946, President George Albert Smith as Salesman
Improvement Era, April 1947, President George Albert Smith's First Mission for the Church
Improvement Era, June 1947, President George Albert Smith's First Mission for the Church
Improvement Era, August 1947, President George Albert Smith's First Mission for the Church
Improvement Era, April 1948, Many Happy Returns to President George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, April 1950, Born of Goodly Parents
Improvement Era, April 1950, Sharing the Gospel with Others
Improvement Era, April 1950, A Period of Progress
Improvement Era, April 1950, Humor... a Way of Life
Improvement Era, April 1950, George Albert Smith, Honorary Doctor of Humanities
Improvement Era, April 1950, Service Through Industry...George Albert Smith as a Businessman
Improvement Era, April 1950, A Normal Day in the Home of George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, April 1950, A Day With the President As Seen by his Secretary
Improvement Era, April 1950, George Albert Smith...Scouter
Improvement Era, April 1950, George Albert Smith...Friend of the Lamanites
Improvement Era, April 1950, Our Tribute to President George Albert Smith
Relief Society Magazine, April 1950, An Exemplar to All Men - A Birthday Greeting to President George Albert Smith
Relief Society Magazine, April 1951, Congratulations to President George Albert Smith on His Eighty-First Birthday
Improvement Era, May 1951, President George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, May 1951, George Albert Smith - A Prophet Goes Home
Relief Society Magazine, May 1951, President George Albert Smith, A Tribute
Improvement Era, June 1951, Tributes Paid President George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, February 1953, In Memory of President George Albert Smith
Instructor, September 1962, President George Albert Smith... Friend-Maker for the Church
Ensign, January 2012, George Albert Smith: He Lived as He Taught
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 4
Juvenile Instructor, 1 January 1904, Elder George A. Smith
Young Woman's Journal, July 1919, George Albert Smith, President of the European Mission
Improvement Era, October 1921, George Albert Smith, General Superintendent of the YMMIA
Improvement Era, March 1932, Greatness in Men - George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, August 1934, Supt. George Albert Smith Awarded the Silver Buffalo
Instructor, October 1934, Elder George Albert Smith
Relief Society Magazine, May 1940, Elder George Albert Smith Observes Birthday
Improvement Era, July 1942, New Honor Accorded Elder George Albert Smith
Instructor, February 1943, Boyhood Experiences - George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, August 1943, President George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, August 1943, President George Albert Smith
Instructor, August 1943, Our Cover Picture
Relief Society Magazine, September 1943, Elder George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, June 1945, President George Albert Smith Becomes Eighth President of the Church
Improvement Era, July 1945, President George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, July 1945, George Albert Smith, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Relief Society Magazine, July 1945, President George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, December 1946, President George Albert Smith as Salesman
Improvement Era, April 1947, President George Albert Smith's First Mission for the Church
Improvement Era, June 1947, President George Albert Smith's First Mission for the Church
Improvement Era, August 1947, President George Albert Smith's First Mission for the Church
Improvement Era, April 1948, Many Happy Returns to President George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, April 1950, Born of Goodly Parents
Improvement Era, April 1950, Sharing the Gospel with Others
Improvement Era, April 1950, A Period of Progress
Improvement Era, April 1950, Humor... a Way of Life
Improvement Era, April 1950, George Albert Smith, Honorary Doctor of Humanities
Improvement Era, April 1950, Service Through Industry...George Albert Smith as a Businessman
Improvement Era, April 1950, A Normal Day in the Home of George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, April 1950, A Day With the President As Seen by his Secretary
Improvement Era, April 1950, George Albert Smith...Scouter
Improvement Era, April 1950, George Albert Smith...Friend of the Lamanites
Improvement Era, April 1950, Our Tribute to President George Albert Smith
Relief Society Magazine, April 1950, An Exemplar to All Men - A Birthday Greeting to President George Albert Smith
Relief Society Magazine, April 1951, Congratulations to President George Albert Smith on His Eighty-First Birthday
Improvement Era, May 1951, President George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, May 1951, George Albert Smith - A Prophet Goes Home
Relief Society Magazine, May 1951, President George Albert Smith, A Tribute
Improvement Era, June 1951, Tributes Paid President George Albert Smith
Improvement Era, February 1953, In Memory of President George Albert Smith
Instructor, September 1962, President George Albert Smith... Friend-Maker for the Church
Ensign, January 2012, George Albert Smith: He Lived as He Taught
Jenson, Andrew. "Smith, George Albert" Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 3. pg. 776-778.
SMITH, George Albert, a member of the Council of Twelve Apostles, was born April 4, 1870, in Salt Lake City, Utah, the son of John Henry Smith and Sarah Farr. He received his early education in the Salt Lake City public schools, and later entered the Brigham Young Academy at Provo, which institution of learning at that time was presided over by Dr. Karl G. Maeser. When his father left on a mission to Europe, in 1883, "George A.," as he was often called, returned to Salt Lake City and entered the Z. C. M. I. clothing factory. Subsequently he took a position with the Co-op. Wagon and Machine Co., and later took a course at the State University. Graduating from this institution, he returned to the Z. C. M. I., where he worked until June, 1892, when he was called on a mission to the Southern States. After five months in the field, he was transferred to the office at Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he became secretary of the mission, and as such assumed the charge of mission affairs during the absence of J. Golden Kimball. In that capacity, as in all others, he manifested strict devotion to duty and was an earnest worker in the cause of truth. He returned home in July, 1894. Previous to his departure on that mission he was ordained a Seventy by his father, John Henry Smith, and was subsequently chosen as a president of the 3rd quorum of Seventy. After returning from his mission, he took his old position at the Z. C. M. I., where he remained until Feb. 10, 1898, when he became receiver of the United States land office under an appointment made by Pres. McKinley, Jan. 31, 1898. He was reappointed to the same position by Pres. Theodore Roosevelt, March 27, 1902, which position he still held when he was chosen as an Apostle in October, 1903. At that time he held the position of Stake president of Y. M. M. I. A. in the Salt Lake Stake of Zion. In the 17th Ward, Salt Lake City, where he was raised, he was a most active member in the Sunday school, first laboring as a teacher, then as a secretary and later as a superintendent. He also took an active part in the Ward Y. M. M. I. A. in his early youth. And after his calling to the Apostleship he became a most active member of his quorum, visiting the different Stakes of Zion, assisting in the organization of new Stakes and Wards and attending to Church duties generally. Soon his health began to fail and it became necessary for him to retire for a certain length of time from his official duties for the purpose of regaining strength. Part of this time he spent on the Pacific coast. In 1919 he was called on a mission to Europe to preside over the European Mission, succeeding George F. Richards. At the time of his departure for that mission, a sketch of his life was published in the "Improvement Era" of July, 1919, from which we cull and copy the following: "Some years ago Apostle Smith's health gave way, but before his loss of health, he averaged thirty thousand miles of travel yearly, at the rate of one and one-half
meetings per day. He visited the saints throughout the country, magnified his position as an Apostle of the Lord, and gave counsel by precept and example to all with whom he came in contact. He was elected president of the Utah society of 'The Sons of the American Revolution' for 1918, and was re-elected in 1919; was a delegate to the S. A. R. Congress, at New York, New Jersey, Rochester (New York), and Detroit (Michigan). He has visited many of the missions in the United States; and, before he became a member of the Council of Twelve, some of the missions of Europe. George Albert Smith has been active in the politics of Utah. He has a remarkable faculty for the making of friends, his enemies even respecting him. He has been an active Republican, but has never said mean or unkind things of his opponents. This is one of his characteristics. In the preaching of the gospel, he does not tear down a man's house, but builds the gospel structure over him with an open and loving invitation to inhabit it. Bro. Smith was elected vice president of the International Irrigation Congress, at Calgary, Canada, in 1913, re-elected vice president at Sacramento, California, in 1914, and president of this Congress, at El Paso, Texas, in 1915. In 1917 he was elected president of the International Dry-farm Congress, at Peoria, Illinois, and elected president of the combined Irrigation and Farm Congress, now known as the International Farm Congress, at Kansas City, in 1918. In these positions he has made many friends. He has been personally acquainted with Presidents McKinley, Roosevelt and Taft, and with several members of the cabinet, governors, senators and representatives throughout the Union and Canada, and with many business men of prominence with whom he has associated as member and officer in the Irrigation Congress and in the International Farm Congress. George Albert Smith is a typical Latter-day Saint; broad minded, pure as a woman, active in good work, zealous in his calling, reliable, conscientious, honest, clean in language and action, faithful, punctual, considerate of his fellows, high or low, having confidence in God, a man who puts his soul into his work, and who is as nearly completely obedient to the laws of God as man can be upon the earth. His actions in youth never caused his parents one moment of anxiety, and he has kept in mind the name he bears, and honored it, believing truthfully, that no son ever had a better father and mother than he. He is a great admirer of punctuality, and one who knows him may set it down as a truth that if he is not on time for an appointment that he will not be there. In his labors with the young men of the Church, he made a specialty of impressing the value of punctuality upon them. Elder Smith has passed through many wonderful experiences, showing the care of God over him, and has had at least twenty-five remarkably narrow escapes from death which would make very interesting reading in themselves. The Lord has preserved him, and we are certain that his new calling to preside over the European Mission, will give him great opportunities to accomplish much of the good that is in his heart. His experience in Church, State and national affairs wonderfully adapt him for leadership in the European Mission, during these days of political, economic and religious life and reconstruction."
SMITH, George Albert, a member of the Council of Twelve Apostles, was born April 4, 1870, in Salt Lake City, Utah, the son of John Henry Smith and Sarah Farr. He received his early education in the Salt Lake City public schools, and later entered the Brigham Young Academy at Provo, which institution of learning at that time was presided over by Dr. Karl G. Maeser. When his father left on a mission to Europe, in 1883, "George A.," as he was often called, returned to Salt Lake City and entered the Z. C. M. I. clothing factory. Subsequently he took a position with the Co-op. Wagon and Machine Co., and later took a course at the State University. Graduating from this institution, he returned to the Z. C. M. I., where he worked until June, 1892, when he was called on a mission to the Southern States. After five months in the field, he was transferred to the office at Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he became secretary of the mission, and as such assumed the charge of mission affairs during the absence of J. Golden Kimball. In that capacity, as in all others, he manifested strict devotion to duty and was an earnest worker in the cause of truth. He returned home in July, 1894. Previous to his departure on that mission he was ordained a Seventy by his father, John Henry Smith, and was subsequently chosen as a president of the 3rd quorum of Seventy. After returning from his mission, he took his old position at the Z. C. M. I., where he remained until Feb. 10, 1898, when he became receiver of the United States land office under an appointment made by Pres. McKinley, Jan. 31, 1898. He was reappointed to the same position by Pres. Theodore Roosevelt, March 27, 1902, which position he still held when he was chosen as an Apostle in October, 1903. At that time he held the position of Stake president of Y. M. M. I. A. in the Salt Lake Stake of Zion. In the 17th Ward, Salt Lake City, where he was raised, he was a most active member in the Sunday school, first laboring as a teacher, then as a secretary and later as a superintendent. He also took an active part in the Ward Y. M. M. I. A. in his early youth. And after his calling to the Apostleship he became a most active member of his quorum, visiting the different Stakes of Zion, assisting in the organization of new Stakes and Wards and attending to Church duties generally. Soon his health began to fail and it became necessary for him to retire for a certain length of time from his official duties for the purpose of regaining strength. Part of this time he spent on the Pacific coast. In 1919 he was called on a mission to Europe to preside over the European Mission, succeeding George F. Richards. At the time of his departure for that mission, a sketch of his life was published in the "Improvement Era" of July, 1919, from which we cull and copy the following: "Some years ago Apostle Smith's health gave way, but before his loss of health, he averaged thirty thousand miles of travel yearly, at the rate of one and one-half
meetings per day. He visited the saints throughout the country, magnified his position as an Apostle of the Lord, and gave counsel by precept and example to all with whom he came in contact. He was elected president of the Utah society of 'The Sons of the American Revolution' for 1918, and was re-elected in 1919; was a delegate to the S. A. R. Congress, at New York, New Jersey, Rochester (New York), and Detroit (Michigan). He has visited many of the missions in the United States; and, before he became a member of the Council of Twelve, some of the missions of Europe. George Albert Smith has been active in the politics of Utah. He has a remarkable faculty for the making of friends, his enemies even respecting him. He has been an active Republican, but has never said mean or unkind things of his opponents. This is one of his characteristics. In the preaching of the gospel, he does not tear down a man's house, but builds the gospel structure over him with an open and loving invitation to inhabit it. Bro. Smith was elected vice president of the International Irrigation Congress, at Calgary, Canada, in 1913, re-elected vice president at Sacramento, California, in 1914, and president of this Congress, at El Paso, Texas, in 1915. In 1917 he was elected president of the International Dry-farm Congress, at Peoria, Illinois, and elected president of the combined Irrigation and Farm Congress, now known as the International Farm Congress, at Kansas City, in 1918. In these positions he has made many friends. He has been personally acquainted with Presidents McKinley, Roosevelt and Taft, and with several members of the cabinet, governors, senators and representatives throughout the Union and Canada, and with many business men of prominence with whom he has associated as member and officer in the Irrigation Congress and in the International Farm Congress. George Albert Smith is a typical Latter-day Saint; broad minded, pure as a woman, active in good work, zealous in his calling, reliable, conscientious, honest, clean in language and action, faithful, punctual, considerate of his fellows, high or low, having confidence in God, a man who puts his soul into his work, and who is as nearly completely obedient to the laws of God as man can be upon the earth. His actions in youth never caused his parents one moment of anxiety, and he has kept in mind the name he bears, and honored it, believing truthfully, that no son ever had a better father and mother than he. He is a great admirer of punctuality, and one who knows him may set it down as a truth that if he is not on time for an appointment that he will not be there. In his labors with the young men of the Church, he made a specialty of impressing the value of punctuality upon them. Elder Smith has passed through many wonderful experiences, showing the care of God over him, and has had at least twenty-five remarkably narrow escapes from death which would make very interesting reading in themselves. The Lord has preserved him, and we are certain that his new calling to preside over the European Mission, will give him great opportunities to accomplish much of the good that is in his heart. His experience in Church, State and national affairs wonderfully adapt him for leadership in the European Mission, during these days of political, economic and religious life and reconstruction."
Jenson, Andrew. "Smith, George Albert" Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 4. pg. 246, 318.
SMITH, George Albert, a member of the General Board of Y. M. M. I. A. from 1904 to 1934, and general superintendent from 1921 to 1934. (See Biographical Encyclopedia, Vol. 3, p. 776.)
SMITH, George Albert, president of the British Mission from 1919 to 1921. (See Bio. Ency., Vol. 3, p. 776.)
SMITH, George Albert, a member of the General Board of Y. M. M. I. A. from 1904 to 1934, and general superintendent from 1921 to 1934. (See Biographical Encyclopedia, Vol. 3, p. 776.)
SMITH, George Albert, president of the British Mission from 1919 to 1921. (See Bio. Ency., Vol. 3, p. 776.)
"Elder George A. Smith" Juvenile Instructor. 1 January 1904. pg. 1-2.
ELDER GEORGE A. SMITH, OF THE QUORUM OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES. ON the 6th of October last. Elder George A. Smith was unanimously sustained by the Saints in conference assembled to be one of the quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, tilling the vacancy caused by the death of President Brigham Young. Brother Smith is the eldest living son of Elder John Henry and Sister Sarah Farr Smith, and was born April 4th, 1870, in Salt Lake City. He was named after his grandfather. President George A. Smith, one of the early Apostles in the Church, a pioneer in this western country, and first counselor to President Brigham Young. His father was called to the apostleship in 1880 and, as is well known, has been actively engaged in the ministry from that time to the present, now standing second in seniority in the quorum. Brother George A. early took an interest in the work of the Church,- - being but a youth when he became a teacher in the 17th Ward Sunday School, in which position his influence among the young people, and especially with the boys, soon became very marked, and in which capacity he impressed many lessons upon them of incalculable good, winning their love and esteem because he showed so much interest in and love for them. During all his Sunday School life he has been connected with the 17th Ward School—as pupil, teacher, assistant superintendent and superintendent, and under whose superintendency the school attained a very high rank for effectiveness in both its general and class work. He was a power for good in Mutual Improvement circles, and, in 1901. was called to the Superintendency of the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Associations of the Salt Lake Stake, later becoming Stake Superintendent, and carrying into that work the same untiring energy displayed in his Sunday School work. He attended the Brigham Young Academy under Brother Karl G. Maeser, and was also a student at the University of Utah from which institution he graduated. He passed through the duties of the Lesser Priesthood, presiding over the Deacon's quorum, and later the Teacher's, and in the regular course became a Seventy, in line with which latter calling responding to the summons to go on a mission to the Southern States, where he was appointed secretary of the mission, and as such had charge of the affairs of the mission for some time during the absence of President J. G. Kimball. He performed his missionary labors in his characteristic energetic manner, winning the respect of Elders and Saints alike. Immediately after his return in 1894 he was called to the council of the third quorum of Seventy, from which position he was. as stated in the opening of this article, called to the apostleship. He married Lucy Woodruff, granddaughter of President Wilford Woodruff. and she joined him in his missionary labors at the Chattanooga office—they have two little girls. He was for many years connected with Z. C. M. I., and has held a position with the Co-operative Wagon & Machine Co. In ] 898 he was appointed United States , Land Receiver by President McKinley. afterwards being re-appointed by President Roosevelt. From his early youth his words and works have been for the benefit and blessing of his fellows. With untiring zeal he has sought out the unfortunate, the careless and indifferent, aiding here, encouraging there, building up and strengthening for good all such whom he could reach—developing at the same time, his own character along the lines laid down by the Master who went about "doing good" -demonstrating to those who have had opportunity to observe his life that in the performance of duty there is no labor too hard, or sacrifice too great to daunt George A. Smith from attempting to perform it—that to him the salvation of souls is the mainspring of his life. The spirit that has actuated him this far will no doubt accompany him in his new and high calling as an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ. |
ELDER GEORGE A. SMITH
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. |
Lyman, Richard R. "George Albert Smith, President of the European Mission" Young Woman's Journal. July 1919. pg. 344-347.
George Albert Smith.
President of the European Mission
By Richard R. Lyman, of the Council of the Twelve.[1]
If a group of theologians were to name the qualities of a perfect man, it is difficult to see wherein the prescribed requirements could demand a more perfect life than is that of George Albert Smith.
Is this an extravagant claim? Let us see. Has anyone known this man to speak unkindly? Has anyone known him to give offense? Is there man more congenial with his fellows or more charitable toward them? From childhood he has been his father’s pride, his mother’s joy. His genuine devotion to his wife and children have made his home life the admiration of all who have had an opportunity to observe it.
To keep one working at his best requires a continuous religious spur. George Albert’s devotion to prayer provides this spur. His renewed resolutions thus made have not been simple mental processes requiring but slight attention. Each day upon bended knees and speaking aloud, he has faithfully resolved to do his best. Find, if you can, a living soul who has followed this practice faithfully whose life has deviated materially from the line of perfect rectitude. Even the irreligious must see that a life thus lived will be better than one lived without these repeated resolutions.
Like the key-stone for an arch, the structure built of this man’s virtues is crowned by his affection for, and his devotion to, his widowed mother. Scarcely does literature exhibit a more beautiful example of filial attachment. Loyal devotion to persons or principles is not rare; but to retain these qualities where important financial interests are at stake, is rare. George Albert Smith’s father, the late John Henry Smith, died suddenly in October. 1911, leaving no will and no word with respect to the disposition of his property. But he left two wives and fifteen children among whom his estate was to be divided.
With his honest, conscientious, gentle nature and prayerful heart, George Albert so adjudicated the rights of all parties concerned that between these two wives and their fifteen children, with the financial matters all settled there is not today the slightest feeling of dissatisfaction. Of George Albert Smith, his father’s other wife says: “No man could be better to a mother than George Albert has been to me, berth before his father’s death and since that time. To my sons. especially while they have been in the mission field, he has been affectionately devoted. He has given them what financial assistance they needed ana he has written to them with great regularity.”
Having been born in 1870, George Albert Smith is forty-nine years old. As a Church worker, he has occupied official position in the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Associations, the Sabbath Schools, and the various quorums of the Priesthood. He has held every official position in the Seventeenth Ward Sunday School except Secretary. He was Counselor and later Superintendent of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association of the Salt Lake Stake, was President of a Deacons’ quorum when he was a boy, and later was president of his Seventy’s quorum. In 1890 he performed a mission in Southern Utah for the Mutual Improvement Associations, and was traveling Elder and Secretary of the Southern States Mission during the years 1892-3.
After he became a member of the Council of the Twelve, and up to the time of his serious nervous illness, George Albert Smith traveled approximately 30,000 miles per year and on an average held one and one-half meetings per day. Before he became a member of the Council of the Twelve he visited all the missions in the United States and some of the missions in Europe.
At the age of thirteen, he began his employment in the Z. C. M. I. overall factory, and at the age of sixteen was employed as a collector for Grant, Odell & Co. At seventeen, he served as teamster to Z. C. M. I., and at eighteen and until 1901 he was a traveling salesman for this same institution.
In politics he has been an active worker. He served as United States Receiver of Public Moneys for Utah under the administrations of Presidents McKinley and Roosevelt.
To understand that George Albert Smith has been one of the important factors in the politics of the Republican party, it is only necessary to know that he has been personally acquainted with Presidents McKinley, Roosevelt, and Taft, that he has also known personally several members of the Cabinet of these presidents, that he counts among his personal friends Governors of the States, United States Senators, and Representatives from various portions of the country.
The following list of official positions to which he has been elected, tells forcefully the high degree of esteem in which he is held by men of influence and prominence in the great national organizations and movements of the country. In this respect he is a worthy son of his worthy father, to whom so many sections of the country are indebted for leadership that brought reservoirs, dams, and many completed U. S. reclamation projects into this western country.
George Albert Smith was elected President of the Utah Society of the Sons of the American Revolution in 1916, and was re-elected in 1919. He served as a delegate to the National Congresses of this organization at Newark, New Jersey; at Rochester, New York, and also at Detroit, Michigan. In 1913 he was elected vice-president of the International Irrigation Congress at Calgary, Canada; was re-elected at Sacramento, California, in 1914, and was elected President at El Paso, Texas, in 1915. He became President of the International Dry Farm Congress at Peoria, Illinois, in 1917, and of the combined Irrigation and Farm Congresses, now the International Farm Congress, in Kansas City, in 1918.
In boyhood he was fond of horseback riding. He was a swift and fearless skater. His love for activity and fun may be judged by the fact that he had his oldest daughter, at the age of five, on skates and skating. His has been a life of unbounded energy.
As a boy, George Albert was a lover of books. In the public schools of Salt Lake City and the Brigham Young University at Provo, and also in the State University, Salt Lake City, he did excellent work as a student. In all probability, had it not been necessary for him as a young man to earn his own living, he would have pursued the life of a scholar.
In conclusion, it might be said: Here is a man who is a friend to all mankind, a man who never made an enemy, whose criticisms are always constructive, whose words never give offense. He is the soul of honor; he is a man of such views and qualifications that the Church which has produced him can take pride in his sterling worth and Christian virtues.
[1] George Albert Smith and Richard R. Lyman are second cousins. They were closely associated in childhood and were students together in the early days of the Brigham Young Academy, now Brigham Young University, at Provo. George Albert Smith was counselor to Stake Superintendent Richard R. Lyman in the Mutual Improvement Associations of the old Salt Lake Stake when it covered all of Salt Lake County. Hence the writer knows the subject of this sketch thoroughly.—Editors.
George Albert Smith.
President of the European Mission
By Richard R. Lyman, of the Council of the Twelve.[1]
If a group of theologians were to name the qualities of a perfect man, it is difficult to see wherein the prescribed requirements could demand a more perfect life than is that of George Albert Smith.
Is this an extravagant claim? Let us see. Has anyone known this man to speak unkindly? Has anyone known him to give offense? Is there man more congenial with his fellows or more charitable toward them? From childhood he has been his father’s pride, his mother’s joy. His genuine devotion to his wife and children have made his home life the admiration of all who have had an opportunity to observe it.
To keep one working at his best requires a continuous religious spur. George Albert’s devotion to prayer provides this spur. His renewed resolutions thus made have not been simple mental processes requiring but slight attention. Each day upon bended knees and speaking aloud, he has faithfully resolved to do his best. Find, if you can, a living soul who has followed this practice faithfully whose life has deviated materially from the line of perfect rectitude. Even the irreligious must see that a life thus lived will be better than one lived without these repeated resolutions.
Like the key-stone for an arch, the structure built of this man’s virtues is crowned by his affection for, and his devotion to, his widowed mother. Scarcely does literature exhibit a more beautiful example of filial attachment. Loyal devotion to persons or principles is not rare; but to retain these qualities where important financial interests are at stake, is rare. George Albert Smith’s father, the late John Henry Smith, died suddenly in October. 1911, leaving no will and no word with respect to the disposition of his property. But he left two wives and fifteen children among whom his estate was to be divided.
With his honest, conscientious, gentle nature and prayerful heart, George Albert so adjudicated the rights of all parties concerned that between these two wives and their fifteen children, with the financial matters all settled there is not today the slightest feeling of dissatisfaction. Of George Albert Smith, his father’s other wife says: “No man could be better to a mother than George Albert has been to me, berth before his father’s death and since that time. To my sons. especially while they have been in the mission field, he has been affectionately devoted. He has given them what financial assistance they needed ana he has written to them with great regularity.”
Having been born in 1870, George Albert Smith is forty-nine years old. As a Church worker, he has occupied official position in the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Associations, the Sabbath Schools, and the various quorums of the Priesthood. He has held every official position in the Seventeenth Ward Sunday School except Secretary. He was Counselor and later Superintendent of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association of the Salt Lake Stake, was President of a Deacons’ quorum when he was a boy, and later was president of his Seventy’s quorum. In 1890 he performed a mission in Southern Utah for the Mutual Improvement Associations, and was traveling Elder and Secretary of the Southern States Mission during the years 1892-3.
After he became a member of the Council of the Twelve, and up to the time of his serious nervous illness, George Albert Smith traveled approximately 30,000 miles per year and on an average held one and one-half meetings per day. Before he became a member of the Council of the Twelve he visited all the missions in the United States and some of the missions in Europe.
At the age of thirteen, he began his employment in the Z. C. M. I. overall factory, and at the age of sixteen was employed as a collector for Grant, Odell & Co. At seventeen, he served as teamster to Z. C. M. I., and at eighteen and until 1901 he was a traveling salesman for this same institution.
In politics he has been an active worker. He served as United States Receiver of Public Moneys for Utah under the administrations of Presidents McKinley and Roosevelt.
To understand that George Albert Smith has been one of the important factors in the politics of the Republican party, it is only necessary to know that he has been personally acquainted with Presidents McKinley, Roosevelt, and Taft, that he has also known personally several members of the Cabinet of these presidents, that he counts among his personal friends Governors of the States, United States Senators, and Representatives from various portions of the country.
The following list of official positions to which he has been elected, tells forcefully the high degree of esteem in which he is held by men of influence and prominence in the great national organizations and movements of the country. In this respect he is a worthy son of his worthy father, to whom so many sections of the country are indebted for leadership that brought reservoirs, dams, and many completed U. S. reclamation projects into this western country.
George Albert Smith was elected President of the Utah Society of the Sons of the American Revolution in 1916, and was re-elected in 1919. He served as a delegate to the National Congresses of this organization at Newark, New Jersey; at Rochester, New York, and also at Detroit, Michigan. In 1913 he was elected vice-president of the International Irrigation Congress at Calgary, Canada; was re-elected at Sacramento, California, in 1914, and was elected President at El Paso, Texas, in 1915. He became President of the International Dry Farm Congress at Peoria, Illinois, in 1917, and of the combined Irrigation and Farm Congresses, now the International Farm Congress, in Kansas City, in 1918.
In boyhood he was fond of horseback riding. He was a swift and fearless skater. His love for activity and fun may be judged by the fact that he had his oldest daughter, at the age of five, on skates and skating. His has been a life of unbounded energy.
As a boy, George Albert was a lover of books. In the public schools of Salt Lake City and the Brigham Young University at Provo, and also in the State University, Salt Lake City, he did excellent work as a student. In all probability, had it not been necessary for him as a young man to earn his own living, he would have pursued the life of a scholar.
In conclusion, it might be said: Here is a man who is a friend to all mankind, a man who never made an enemy, whose criticisms are always constructive, whose words never give offense. He is the soul of honor; he is a man of such views and qualifications that the Church which has produced him can take pride in his sterling worth and Christian virtues.
[1] George Albert Smith and Richard R. Lyman are second cousins. They were closely associated in childhood and were students together in the early days of the Brigham Young Academy, now Brigham Young University, at Provo. George Albert Smith was counselor to Stake Superintendent Richard R. Lyman in the Mutual Improvement Associations of the old Salt Lake Stake when it covered all of Salt Lake County. Hence the writer knows the subject of this sketch thoroughly.—Editors.
A. "George Albert Smith, General Superintendent of the YMMIA." Improvement Era. October 1921. pg. 1051.
George Albert Smith, General Superintendent of the Y. M. M. I. A. At a meeting of the General Board of the Y. M. M. I. A., attended by President Keber J. Grant, and held on Wednesday, August 31, 1921, Elder George Albert Smith, of the Council of the Twelve, was chosen to succeed President Anthony W. Ivins, of the Presidency of the Church, as general Superintendent of the Y. M. M. I. A. He chose as his counselors, Elders B. H. Roberts and Richard R. Lyman. Elder Ivins who has occupied the position of superintendent since Nov. 27, 1918, was released, owing to his arduous duties as Second Counselor in the First Presidency. Elder George Albert Smith is well-known to the young people of Zion. He was born in Salt Lake City, April 4, 1870, a son of President John Henry Smith and Sarah Farr Smith. He has been a life-long worker in Church organizations. He was counselor to the superintendent, then superintendent for a number of years, of the Y. M. M. I. A. of the Salt Lake stake of Zion, before its division into four stakes. He filled a mission in the southern states in 1892-3. On June 25, 1892, he married Lucy Emily Woodruff, a grand-daughter of the late President Wilford Woodruff and Judge Elias Smith. She accompanied her husband on this mission, as she did also on the mission from which Superintendent Smith recently returned from England, and to which mission he was called in the spring of 1919. Elder Smith was chosen a member of the Council of the Twelve, October 6, 1903, and has been active in this position ever since, having not only performed many Church duties, but filled many civil positions. Elder Smith is. a typical Latter- day Saint, broad-minded, active in good work, zealous in his calling, reliable, conscientious, honest, clean in person, language and action, faithful, punctual, considerate of his fellows, high and low, having confidence in God, a man who puts his soul into his work, and who is as nearly completely obedient to the laws of God as man can be upon the earth. With his experience among the young people and in the Church, he should prove an admirable director for the youth of Zion, and a worthy successor of that prince of scouts and leader of men, President Anthony W. Ivins. — A. |
GEORGE ALBERT SMTTH
Elder George Albert Smith, of the Council of the Twelve who succeeds President Anthony W. Ivins as General Superintendent of the Y. M. M. I. A. |
Hinckley, Bryant A. "Greatness in Men - George Albert Smith." Improvement Era. March 1932. pg. 269-272, 295-296.
Greatness in Men Superintendent George Albert Smith By BRYANT S. HINCKLEY President of Liberty Stake Few men in the inter-mountain West can count as many warm friends as Elder George Albert Smith. President Hinckley in this article tells why. GEORGE ALBERT SMITH is an outstanding American citizen. He loves the land that gave him birth and the flag that waves over it. His sires have followed the stars and stripes in battle and maintained the Constitution in the vicissitudes of peace. Patriotism is born and bred in him. His gifted and illustrious father, John Henry Smith, had a patriotic pride, a passionate love for this land of liberty and for the republic which our fathers established here. George Albert is a descendant of Edward Winslow of the Mayflower, who later became Governor of the Plymouth Colony. Among his ancestors are also the original families of Libby, Freeman, Hovey and Lord, all of New England. Some of his Revolutionary ancestors are: Samuel Smith, chairman of the committee of Safety at Topsfield, Massachusetts; Asahel Smith, son of Samuel Smith, who was also of Topsfield, Massachusetts; Jonathan Farr; Timothy Chase, aide to General Washington, and Richard Lyman, orderly sergeant to General Putman. THUS it is seen that not only his immediate ancestors, but his forbears for generations, have been liberty loving Americans, fostering in every way true patriotism and carrying forward the purposes expressed in the Preamble of the Constitution of our common country. He has a proud inheritance and is worthy of it. John Henry Smith, who was a counselor in the First Presidency of the Church at the time of his death, will always be remembered as one of the most impressive and eloquent defenders of the faith and as a leader of vision and courage. There was something genial and chivalrous about him—his presence added dignity and prestige to any cause or company. Our modern reclamation service owes a lasting debt of gratitude to him and to his loyal son, George Albert. The cooperation and support which these men brought to this cause is, in a large degree, responsible for its success. THE records show that George Albert took this work up where his father laid it down and gave to it his loyal support. He was elected vice-president of the International Irrigation Congress held at Calgary, Canada in 1913, re-elected vice-president at Sacramento, California in 1914 and elected president of this Congress at El Paso, Texas, in 1915. In 1917 he was elected president of the International Dry Farm Congress at the session held at Peoria, Illinois and elected president of the Combined Irrigation and Farm Congress at Kansas City in 1918. This is indeed a splendid record of service. In 1898 he was appointed receiver of Public Moneys and Disbursing Agent for Utah by President McKinley and later re-appointed by President Roosevelt. He was the first Latter-day Saint to receive a federal appointment. During the World War he was a member of the State Council of Defense and was chairman of the Armenian and Syrian Relief. His love of country is shown in the very active part which he has taken in the Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. He has served as chaplain of the Utah Society and was elected president of this branch in 1918 and re-elected the following year, and has served repeatedly as a member of the Board of Managers. He was a delegate to the National Congress of the Society when it met in New York City, also at the meetings held in New Jersey in Rochester and in Detroit, and has twice been elected vice-president of the national organization. On February 22nd last he delivered an address at a joint Lincoln and Washington Memorial service held in Springfield, Illinois—a very distinct honor. HE has sought always, and in the most enlightened and practical way, to further the interests of his country and to promote its general welfare as only a true-hearted American can do. Thus he has added lustre to a name already bright with deeds of patriotic service. All down the line this family has not only saluted the flag but has followed it in battle and backed their Americanism with stern and valorous deeds. They have been peace-loving but militant for righteousness. It is a matter of interest to know that as a young man he was active in the National Guard of Utah, serving as first sergeant. Troop C—First cavalry, for the full term of enlistment. He rides a horse with grace and skill. His interpretation of religion is a true index to his character. His religion is not doctrine in cold storage. It is not theory. It means more to him than a beautiful plan to be admired. It is more than a philosophy of life. To one of his practical turn of mind religion is the spirit in which a man lives, in which he does things, if it be only to say a kind word or give a cup of cold water. His religion must find expression in deeds. It must carry over into the details of daily life; it must manifest itself in the stern and rugged virtues which underlie all sound living; it compels him to make his practices square with his professions. This is equally true of his Americanism. George Albert Smith is a man of action, not diction. He is never satisfied with just rendering passive service. All his endeavors are constructive. He is a natural crusader for righteousness and justice. He is officially connected with some of the leading commercial and industrial enterprises of Utah. At present he is director and vice-president of Utah Savings and Trust Company; director and vice-president of Utah-Idaho Sugar Company; president of Libbey Investment Company; director of Z. C. M. I.; director of Heber J. Grant 8 Company and a director of Mutual Creamery Company. He was formerly a director of Utah National Bank, of the Salt Lake Theatre and of Decker Wholesale Jewelry Company. His judgment, his vision and his unquestioned integrity, coupled with a capacity for bringing things to pass would, we think, have made for him a place in the business and financial world if he had devoted his time and talents in that direction. AS a boy he very early learned the meaning of hard work and felt the weight of responsibility. At the age of thirteen he was employed in the Z. C. M. I. overalls factory and afterwards in other departments and positions of that institution —some of the positions were very humble. He subsequently became a director, and had the honor of representing the institution at a gathering of prominent merchants in the City of London who were entertained for six weeks by the British Drapers Association. It is a long call from the dust and noise of the factory to the position as the official representative at a great international gathering in the metropolis of the world. In 1919 he was appointed by Governor Simon Bamberger to represent Utah at the International Housing Convention in London. He attended the public schools of Salt Lake City, the Brigham Young University at Provo and the University of Utah. He is a keen observer, has traveled extensively and mingled with men of liberal learning and has thus acquired a culture and a training which colleges do not give. ON leaving the University of Utah he became a member of the surveying party which laid out the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad east from Green River. It was while working in this capacity that his eye sight became permanently impaired as a result of the heat and glaring sun of that desert country. This was an irreparable loss to him and had it not been for his indomitable will it might have proved a serious handicap. Notwithstanding this he is a well read man. Providentially this very handicap has forced him to work in a field of greater importance. He is never idle for his pastime is saving and helping people. There are to his credit many achievements, but perhaps the field of his finest endeavor has been the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association, of which organization he has been general superintendent for ten years. He has served this organization in almost every capacity—from a lay member to general superintendent. He was stake superintendent at the time he was ordained an apostle. The Salt Lake Stake, over which he then presided, was made up of about forty wards and covered Salt Lake County. With his characteristic zeal he gathered about him a corps of the most capable young leaders, organized his work, developed his plans and carried forward his program with remarkable efficiency. Permeating the entire movement was a spiritual vitality which comes only from superior leadership. THE deeds which will last longest and shine the brightest in the affections of. those who know him best will not be his public utterances, his patriotic service, his business ability, nor the stimulating power which he imparts to all the movements and organizations with which he becomes connected, and we would not minimize any of these for they are important; but the deeds which will forever adorn his life have been done in quiet ways. His supreme work has been accomplished in unseen places and at unknown hours, and often with forgotten and neglected people. He has been indeed a father to the fatherless and a friend to the forsaken. His solicitude for the welfare of the young people has found expression in an individual missionary work of the most far-reaching and effective character. His unfailing kindness, his implicit faith in humanity, his rare ability to reach the hearts of boys, to win their confidence to awaken the good that slumbers in their souls, has enabled him to do some of the most precious work that men ever do. He has the priceless gift of planting hope in the human heart, of restoring confidence and starting men anew on the path that leads to peace and self-victory. TO get a faint glimpse of some of the best things he has done one needs only to talk with a strong man whose locks are now touched with gray and whose tender heart throbs with gratitude when he tells you what he did for him. This man had become a victim of drink and was in the depths of degradation and despair when George Albert Smith found him and put hope and resolution in his heart and started him anew on the road to permanent happiness and splendid achievement. This gray haired man has been signally successful with thou- sands of boys and girls, and, out of his own bitter experience, has been able to better understand the struggles and soul tragedies of others, and learned how to extend the helping hand and say the saving word to those who most need it. This rare and priceless lesson he learned from George Albert Smith. When you read between the lines and search the recesses of George Albert's life this conviction settles upon your soul: The deep, quiet currents which run through his life are the forces which have made possible his most supreme work. These silent forces live on and may come to the surface only once in a while but after all they are the forces that save society, bless mankind and make this earth a good place in which to live. He is not physically rugged but he is a dynamo that generates these salient and significant forces. This is the great thing in his life and the thing for which men and women will rise up and call his name blessed. "I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth." (Luke XV: 10.) IF you were to visit George Albert Smith in his modest but beautiful and attractive home on Yale Avenue in Salt Lake City you might be ^shown, among other relics, some splinters which fell upon his bed while he was lying upon the floor of a log cabin in Alabama. The house in which he and his missionary companions were staying was surrounded by a mob and fired upon. Their lives were saved by lying flat on the floor. These splinters were torn from the logs over his head by the hissing bullets. To those who have come within the radius of his friendly influence it is difficult to understand how any one, friend or foe, could look upon him as an enemy, or to understand the motive that would prompt men to assail his life. He is a man of peace and all his life has cultivated good will toward men. Here is a creed written by his own pen upon paper and long since recorded in the daily deeds of bis busy life. You can put this creed in the past tense and it epitomizes his life—this is what he has actually done. The great truths which he then aspired to teach and the things he wanted to preach are beautifully exemplified in his own life. Read this creed and compare it with the record of his deeds. "I would be a friend to the friendless and find joy in ministering to the needs of the poor. I would visit the sick and afflicted and inspire in them a desire for faith to be healed. I would teach the truth to the understanding and blessing of all mankind. I would seek out the erring one and try to win him back to a righteous and a happy life. I would not seek to force people to live up to my ideals but rather love them into doing the thing that is right. I would live with the masses and help to solve their problems that their earth life may be happy. I would avoid the publicity of high positions and discourage the flattery of thoughtless friends. I would not knowingly wound the feeling of any, not even one who may have wronged me, but would seek to do him good and make him my friend. I would overcome the tendency to selfishness and jealousy and rejoice in the successes of all the children of my Heavenly Father. I would not be an enemy to any living soul. Knowing that the Redeemer of mankind has offered to the world the only plan that will fully develop us and make us really happy here and hereafter I feel it not only a duty but a blessed privilege to disseminate this truth." AN analysis of his character reveals another secret of his growth. He is a man of refined sensibilities, modest and unobtrusive, but possessing a lofty self-respect which has led him to constantly make the acquaintance and to diligently cultivate the companionship of men of the highest ideals. His supreme ideal was his father for whom he had almost a religious devotion. It would be difficult to estimate what it means to a young man to contact great personalities. The touch with men of leadership and spiritual power, the association with triumphant and victorious souls is the greatest inspiration to growth and fine endeavor. This is the contact we all need most. He has mingled with the greatest and the best men of all parties and creeds and made friends for himself and his cause. He has known personally six presidents of the United States. Many United States senators, congressmen and governors are counted among his personal friends. In his twenty-second year he married Lucy Emily Woodruff, a grand-daughter of the late President Wilford Woodruff, a woman of sublime faith and superior intelligence, possessing that matchless but indefinable gift of making a home a shrine. The natural beauty of the location with the shrubs and flowers surrounding it make this one of the most delightful and picturesque places in the entire city. More than four thousand tulips bloomed in this garden last season, and one afternoon they cut and sent to the hospitals of the city twenty-seven hundred shasta daisies. There is an atmosphere of comfort and tranquility about this fireside which can emanate only from warm and hospitable hearts. Distinguished visitors from Europe and America have been entertained here and have never forgotten it. This is a real home, typical of the finest and most fundamental institutions that men and women ever create. Lucy Smith has gone with her husband, cared for him in his sickness and sustained him in his endeavors as only a noble and devoted wife could do. THEY have been blessed with two daughters: Emily, wife of Robert Murray Stewart, and Edith, wife of George O. Elliott, and a son. His only son, George Albert, Jr., is the sixth in his father's line to accept as divine the mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith. A companionship existing between this father and son is both an inspiration and a delight. These children have a proud ancestry and are altogether worthy of it. He is a technician in the fine art of making friends. "Blessed are they who have the gift of making friends for it is one of God's best gifts. It involves many things but, above all, the power of going out of one's self and appreciating what is noble in others." (Thomas Hughes.) George Albert Smith's friendship is real; it is the expression of a sincere and refined soul. Some one has said that no man is useless while he has a friend. If a man's usefulness is measured by the number of his friends who could estimate the value of his life? He meets the daily problems, small or great, with a brave heart and with manly courage, always carrying with him a warm hand clasp and a friendly note in his voice. ONE of the attractive sides of his character is his thoughtful and generous acts of kindness to the unfortunate and the poor. He has a smile and a cheerful word of encouragement and a warmth of feeling that wins for him the hearts of men. He is a sympathetic counselor, a delightful companion, a loyal and loving comrade. Wherever he goes he spreads the genial rays of kindness. This is the secret of many of his finest achievements. The high and dominant note running all through his splendid life is his love for the truth and his devotion to the great Church to which he belongs. No matter how alluring other things have been he has never allowed them to conflict with or diminish his zeal for this work. From his early manhood he has exhibited a quality of spiritual leadership of an uncommon kind. As a Sunday School teacher and superintendent he built up an organization that was the pride of the ward in which he lived and attracted the attention of Sunday School workers everywhere. Those who were associated with him in this work in the Seventeenth ward received an inspiration that has lasted them a life time. He was chosen an apostle October 6, 1903. He has always been one of the most ardent and devoted workers in the entire Church. When his health would permit he traveled an average of more than thirty thousand miles a year and held on an average, one and one-half meetings per day. Physically he is not robust and has often worked beyond the limits of his strength. IN June, 1919, he went with his family to preside over the European Mission, the activities of which were greatly curtailed as a result of the World War. He remained until August, 1921. Under his presidency the Mission was rehabilitated, the scattered saints were cheered and comforted and the entire work was quickened by his vitalizing touch. As president he displayed that rare quality of leadership which inspired his missionaries to rise to their very best. He won the allegiance and loyalty of all the Elders by his constant love and unfailing kindness. He could rise to great spiritual altitudes and speak with a lofty and convincing eloquence—at the same time he never overlooked the minutest detail when it came to administering the affairs of the Mission. Almost from the beginning of Scouting in Utah he has been officially and actively associated with this movement both in a local and national capacity. At the present time he belongs to the National Council and is a member of the executive committee of Region Twelve. He took the initiative in the organization of the Utah Pioneer Trails and Landmarks Association and is its president. BOTH scouting and the preservation of our pioneer landmarks appeal to the very finest instincts of his soul and both will profit greatly thereby. He will bring to these movements not only his splendid ability and a consecrated heart but the great influence of his high office and the powerful support and cooperation of his numerous and influential friends. Under his tolerant and magnanimous leadership no group or sect or detail will be overlooked or neglected. George Albert Smith descends from a line of men and women who belong to the nobility of the earth. The unselfish work which he has done and which he is now doing will secure for him a place among the nobility of God. |
John Henry and Sarah Farr Smith at the time of their marriage.
George Albert Smith and Lucy Woodruff just before they were married.
A very young George Albert Smith.
Father Victor Herring and George Albert Smith
Cabin in the glen at the home of George Albert Smith. Here he spends his summer evenings.
George Albert Smith—Senior and Junior.
George Albert Smith
The Trail Blazer George Albert Smith and friends who received the Silver Beaver for distinguished contributions to Scouting.
In Salt Creek Canyon
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"Supt. George Albert Smith Awarded the Silver Buffalo." Improvement Era. August 1934. pg. 462.
Supt. George Albert Smith Awarded the Silver Buffalo The entire membership of the Church will be interested in this important event, for undoubtedly, few men who have ever served the Church have had so many warm friends among its membership. In selecting Superintendent Smith for this award Scouting officials showed their wisdom and sagacity. THE Mutual Improvement Associations, Scout leaders of the Church Aaronic Priesthood supervisors who cooperate in Scouting, and the Church itself, was signally honored at the annual meeting of the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America, May 31, at Buffalo, New York. At that time Elder George Albert Smith, member of the Council of the Twelve Apostles and General Superintendent of the Y. M. M. I. A., which makes him the ranking officer of Scouting in all the Church, was awarded the Silver Buffalo, the highest award in Scouting in the United States and equal, at least, in honor to any such award made anywhere in the world. It is interesting to note that the award of the buffalo was made in the city of Buffalo and in the state in which the Church was organized. The silver buffalo is awarded for outstanding and meritorious service to boyhood. Only six are awarded each year. In the distinguished company this year were such well known men as Hon. Newton D. Baker, Secretary of War in Woodrow Wilson's cabinet during the World War, and Col. Theodore Roosevelt. The awards were made at the annual dinner, in the presence of hundreds of the leading Scouters of America and many invited guests of national prominence. It is one of the outstanding features of the National Council meetings and the few who are chosen to receive this high honor are shown every consideration and courtesy. As the awards are made the officer making the presentation repeats the words of an official citation from the highest officials of Scouting. When Elder Smith was honored the following citation was read: "George Albert Smith: Business executive, religious leader. Former President of the International Irrigation Congress and International Farm Congress, Federal Receiver of Public Moneys and Special Disbursing Agent for the State of Utah. Member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and General Superintendent of the Young Mens' Mutual Improvement Associations of that Church. Organizer and President . of the Utah Pioneer Trails and Landmarks Association. Member of the National Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of America, Program Divisional Committee, Committee on Relationships, and of its Region Twelve Executive Committee, and identified with its local activities continually almost since its organization. He has been indefatigable in serving the cause of Scouting, and to his enthusiasm for its program must be largely traced the fact that Utah stands above all other states in the percentage of boys who are Scouts." |
SUPERINTENDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH AND SILVER BUFFALO AWARD
SUPERINTENDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH AND HIS SON, ALBERT, IN THE OUT-OF-DOORS
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"Elder George Albert Smith." Instructor. October 1934. pg. 436.
ELDER GEORGE ALBERT SMITH Our cover this month is graced by the picture of one of the most active and genial leaders in the Church—George Albert Smith of the Council of the Twelve: Apostle Smith is the son of John Henry and Sarah Fan- Smith. He was educated in the public schools, the B. Y. Academy, and the University of Utah, and was graduated from the last named institution. As missionary, United States official, President of the European Mission, Apostle, President of the Y. M. M. I. A., Scout Executive, and other honorable positions too numerous to mention, Brother Smith has acquitted himself with marked ability, and to the credit of his city, state, nation and Church. His message to Sunday School workers in this issue is interesting and thought-stimulating. We wish him and his dear wife Lucy Woodruff Smith many years of happiness and joy in the continued service of the Master. |
E. S. E. "Elder George Albert Smith Observes Birthday." Relief Society Magazine. May 1940. pg. 353.
Elder George Albert Smith Observes Birthday
APRIL 4, 1940, Lion House, Salt Lake City: Seventy tall and stately, pure-white candles burned brightly, each representing a year in the life of Elder George Albert Smith, each year filled with service, kindliness and love, each year the world made better for his having lived. The candles, mounted on a seven-foot base for the birthday cake, were a real work of art—each of the four tiers banded with candy ribbons, fancy bows and flowers and topped with a candy basket filled with candy flowers. Fresh roses, iris, lilies and ferns banked the seven-yard table, covered with a handmade, white lace cloth over yellow satin.
The entrance to the reception room was draped in green and gold satin by the stalwarts of M. I. A. A graphic display of pictures of monument work represented accomplishments of the Landmarks and Trails Association during his administration as president. A unique exhibit of delegate badges and credentials represented scores of conventions and types of service. A life history in photographs of Elder Smith and his beautiful wife, Lucy Emily Woodruff Smith, told of their happy life together. Her sweet influence was felt all evening. Hundreds of beautiful flowers filled all the rooms —gifts from friends, corporations, and organizations. Sweet young girls and stately matrons of abiding accomplishments were ready to assist with the serving. Boy Scouts in uniform were at assigned posts.
Eight o'clock, the opening hour of the reception, arrived. Elder Smith and his family stood ready to receive their guests. Would anyone come? No personal invitations had been issued. The press, organizations, and radio had notified the community that the family of George Albert Smith would like to have the public join them in honoring their father on the anniversary of his birth as well as giving them the opportunity to say "thank you" to the hundreds of people who had been kind to him through the years.
The historic door of the Lion House opened, and for two and one-half hours "friends" called to shake hands, express good wishes, and leave their happy smiles forever to be a sacred memory of a great occasion. Officers both of national and local Scouting and officers of Sons of the American Revolution, the Governor, Mayor of Salt Lake City, other representatives of city and state, officials of all churches, your neighbors and mine, youth and age, all came to extend greetings to the respected churchman.
During the evening, the Boy Scouts and M. I. A. had a broadcast from the Lion House. Mr. Chuck, National Boy Scout executive. Governor Henry H. Blood, and Scouts in uniform and a soloist, appeared on the radio program. Miss Irene Jones, remarkable blind teacher of the blind, read an original poem.
The joyous occasion passed into history, leaving hundreds of birthday cards, more than two thousand names in the guest book, a basket of telegrams and the memories of the smiles, kind words and thoughts of countless relatives and friends— a great tribute to a great man.—E. S. E.
Elder George Albert Smith Observes Birthday
APRIL 4, 1940, Lion House, Salt Lake City: Seventy tall and stately, pure-white candles burned brightly, each representing a year in the life of Elder George Albert Smith, each year filled with service, kindliness and love, each year the world made better for his having lived. The candles, mounted on a seven-foot base for the birthday cake, were a real work of art—each of the four tiers banded with candy ribbons, fancy bows and flowers and topped with a candy basket filled with candy flowers. Fresh roses, iris, lilies and ferns banked the seven-yard table, covered with a handmade, white lace cloth over yellow satin.
The entrance to the reception room was draped in green and gold satin by the stalwarts of M. I. A. A graphic display of pictures of monument work represented accomplishments of the Landmarks and Trails Association during his administration as president. A unique exhibit of delegate badges and credentials represented scores of conventions and types of service. A life history in photographs of Elder Smith and his beautiful wife, Lucy Emily Woodruff Smith, told of their happy life together. Her sweet influence was felt all evening. Hundreds of beautiful flowers filled all the rooms —gifts from friends, corporations, and organizations. Sweet young girls and stately matrons of abiding accomplishments were ready to assist with the serving. Boy Scouts in uniform were at assigned posts.
Eight o'clock, the opening hour of the reception, arrived. Elder Smith and his family stood ready to receive their guests. Would anyone come? No personal invitations had been issued. The press, organizations, and radio had notified the community that the family of George Albert Smith would like to have the public join them in honoring their father on the anniversary of his birth as well as giving them the opportunity to say "thank you" to the hundreds of people who had been kind to him through the years.
The historic door of the Lion House opened, and for two and one-half hours "friends" called to shake hands, express good wishes, and leave their happy smiles forever to be a sacred memory of a great occasion. Officers both of national and local Scouting and officers of Sons of the American Revolution, the Governor, Mayor of Salt Lake City, other representatives of city and state, officials of all churches, your neighbors and mine, youth and age, all came to extend greetings to the respected churchman.
During the evening, the Boy Scouts and M. I. A. had a broadcast from the Lion House. Mr. Chuck, National Boy Scout executive. Governor Henry H. Blood, and Scouts in uniform and a soloist, appeared on the radio program. Miss Irene Jones, remarkable blind teacher of the blind, read an original poem.
The joyous occasion passed into history, leaving hundreds of birthday cards, more than two thousand names in the guest book, a basket of telegrams and the memories of the smiles, kind words and thoughts of countless relatives and friends— a great tribute to a great man.—E. S. E.
"New Honor Accorded Elder George Albert Smith." Improvement Era. July 1942. pg. 442.
New Honor Accorded ELDER GEORGE ALBERT SMITH THE following interesting notes concerning the activities of Elder George Albert Smith have been received from the office of Peggy A. Guetter, Director of the Western Air Lines News Bureau. George Albert Smith, well-known and beloved throughout the nation for his Church work and outstanding record with the Boy Scouts of America, is now director of Western Air Lines, bringing to that company his wealth of experience and love for aviation. For sixteen years George Albert Smith has supported and watched with almost parental interest the growth of the nation's first airline. His election as a director means that he will take an active part in directing the company which was founded in 1926 to bring air transportation to Salt Lake City and the West. It was on August 3, 1927, that he took his first flight to Los Angeles, riding in the mail plane which was the crude forerunner of today's luxury transports. Since that day, George Albert Smith has flown throughout the West on every type of plane. In his recollection of his early flights he recalls that his pilot wrote him notes, pointing out the various points of interest, and that they flew down into the canyons for a close-up view of the beauties of Zion and Bryce. From his own thorough knowledge of the country, he compiled historical data which is a standard guide for all passengers as they travel over this region. "It was my good fortune to begin flying in the day when air mail was being tried out and when few passengers had the opportunity to go by air between Salt Lake and Los Angeles, and I have enjoyed my flying experiences ever since. I am sure that the day is not far distant when nearly everyone will go by air when they have any distance to travel," was written by George Albert Smith in a recent letter. And it might be added that his very first flight was in 1920 when he flew the English channel. Some of George Albert Smith's ancestors came to America on the Mayflower and to the valley of the Great Salt Lake with the first Pioneers. During his full life he has played a prominent part in reclamation service, being at one time vice-president and then president of the International Irrigation Congress and president of the Dry Farm Congress and president of the Farm Congress created by the merger of the other two. He was one of the first Latter-day Saints to receive a federal appointment when he was named receiver of Public Money and Special Disbursing Agent for Utah by President McKinley and later reappointed by President Theodore Roosevelt. In the business and financial world, he has displayed vision which will be of great service to aviation. He has been director and vice-president of Utah Savings and Trust Company; director and vice-president of Utah-Idaho Sugar Company; president of Libby Investment Company; director of Z. C. M. I.; director of Heber J. Grant and Company, and a director of Mutual Creamery Company. His work with the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association has shown superior leadership. Then, too, almost from the beginning of Boy Scouting in Utah he has been officially and actively associated with this movement both in a local and national capacity. At the present time he belongs to the National Executive Board and is the recipient of the highest awards in Scouting, the Silver Beaver and Silver Buffalo. He has known personally six presidents of the United States. Many United States senators, congressmen and governors are counted among his personal friends. Educated in the public schools in Salt Lake City, Brigham Young University and the University of Utah, it is interesting to note that on leaving the university, he became a member of the party that surveyed the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad east from Green River. Now he will take part in laying out the plans for the nation's aviation industry which has a future that needs the wisdom and experience of men like George Albert Smith. |
GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
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"Boyhood Experiences - George Albert Smith." Instructor. February 1943. pg. 73.
By GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
(To go with Lesson for September 26)
When I was a child I became ill. The doctor said I had typhoid fever and should be in in bed for at least three weeks.
He told mother to give me no solid food, but to have me drink some coffee.
When he went away, I told mother that I didn't want any coffee. I had been taught that the Word of Wisdom, given by the Lord to Joseph Smith, advised us not to use coffee.
Mother had brought three children into the world and two had died. She was unusually anxious about me.
I asked her to send for Brother Hawks, one of our ward teachers. He was a worker at the foundry, a poor and humble man of great faith in the power of the Lord.
He came, administered to me and blessed me that I might be healed.
When the doctor came next morning I was playing outside with other children. He was surprised. He examined me and discovered that my fever had gone and that I seemed to be well.
I was grateful to the Lord for my recovery, I was sure that He had healed me.
By GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
(To go with Lesson for September 26)
When I was a child I became ill. The doctor said I had typhoid fever and should be in in bed for at least three weeks.
He told mother to give me no solid food, but to have me drink some coffee.
When he went away, I told mother that I didn't want any coffee. I had been taught that the Word of Wisdom, given by the Lord to Joseph Smith, advised us not to use coffee.
Mother had brought three children into the world and two had died. She was unusually anxious about me.
I asked her to send for Brother Hawks, one of our ward teachers. He was a worker at the foundry, a poor and humble man of great faith in the power of the Lord.
He came, administered to me and blessed me that I might be healed.
When the doctor came next morning I was playing outside with other children. He was surprised. He examined me and discovered that my fever had gone and that I seemed to be well.
I was grateful to the Lord for my recovery, I was sure that He had healed me.
Evans, Richard L. "President George Albert Smith." Improvement Era. August 1943. pg. 460, 511.
President GEORGE ALBERT SMITH of the Council of the Twelve By RICHARD L EVANS Of the First Council of the Seventy ON July 8, 1943, President Heber J. Grant set apart Elder -George Albert Smith as president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. President Smith had been previously sustained in this office on July 1, 1943, at a meeting of the First Presidency and. the Council of the Twelve. By these actions, there came to this position of high honor and great responsibility a man whose days have been filled with those things which eminently qualify him for this trust and service and distinction. To begin with, President George Albert Smith is serving his fortieth year as an apostle—a calling he received at thirty-three years of age. In these four decades he has been, literally and figuratively, a moving figure in many places and in many undertakings. He is a cosmopolitan. His travels have taken him to the distant parts of the earth, both in Europe and in the Pacific, and his crossings of the length and breadth of the United States several times each year have made him a familiar figure in public places and a trusted friend and counselor in the homes of both humble and high-ranking men and women. To understand George Albert Smith and his fervent Americanism and his tenacious love of truth one would have to go back beyond him, and look at the generations that have cast the die of his heritage—back to the Winslows of the Mayflower, back to John and Priscilla Alden, back to the Smiths of Topsfield, Mass.,—back to the names of Farr, Chase, Lyman, Libby, Freeman, Hovey, and Lord—names of colonial and Revolutionary distinction—names of forebears whose blood runs in his veins. One would have to go back also, through the generations of Smiths who have been valiant in the restored Church—three generations of whom have been called to the apostleship — George A. Smith, grandfather, and John Henry Smith, father, of George Albert, both members of the Quorum of the Twelve, both at one time or another members of the First Presidency of the Church, and both defenders of the faith and preachers of the word with notable energy, effectiveness, and devotion. And then back, even beyond three generations of apostles—back to the fourth generation, John Smith, great-grandfather of George Albert Smith and uncle of the Prophet Joseph Smith, was Patriarch to the Church, following the death of Hyrum Smith, and president of four stakes including Salt Lake Stake in 1847, after the Church came to the western valleys. Beginning, then, at these roots, George Albert Smith is the better accounted for. President Smith's career has been more varied than is generally known, since he has so long been looked upon as an apostle and member of the Quorum of the Twelve, and since other considerations have so long been secondary in his life. And yet the chronicle of the years since his birth in Salt Lake City in 1870 makes record of many things besides official Church service—of his attendance at Brigham Young Academy, Provo, and at the University of Utah; of youthful days spent in the Z.C.M.I. overall factory; of duty as a first sergeant of cavalry in the Utah National Guard; of service with a railroad surveying party during the laying of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad across the desert; as Receiver of Public Monies and Disbursing Agent for Utah by appointment of President McKinley, and reappointed by President Theodore Roosevelt, his personal friend; as president of the International Dry Farm Congress; as president of the International Irrigation Congress, and when the two merged, president of the Farm Congress; five terms as vice-president general of the Sons of the American Revolution, the fifth term of which he is now serving; as officer and member of civic organizations and commissions; as organizer and president of the Utah Pioneer Trails and Landmarks Association; as vice-president of the American Pioneer Trails Association, as a member of the National Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of America, being awarded the Silver Beaver and the Silver Buffalo, highest Scouting honors; he is also chairman of the program and resolutions committee of the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America. His career also includes service as officer and director of banks and commercial institutions, including the Utah Savings & Trust Company, Utah-Idaho Sugar Company, Z.C.M.I., Heber J. Grant & Company, Mutual Creamery Company, Western Air Lines, and others—in addition to multiple Church duties including eleven years as general superintendent of the Y.M.M.I.A., besides conference assignments, travel, and the routine work of the Council. Brother Smith presided over the European Mission in the difficult postwar reconstruction period from 1919 to 1922; in 1938, accompanied by Elder Rufus K. Hardy of the First Council of the Seventy, he visited the Pacific Island missions of the Church, Hawaii, Samoa, New Zealand, Tonga, and Australia. Before he came to the Council of the Twelve as a young man, he had served in the Sunday Schools of the Church, and as a stake superintendent of the Y.M.M.I.A. of Salt Lake Stake. It is to be wondered how one man could give such variety and vigor of attention to so many major responsibilities —and yet all this, and much more, George Albert Smith has done —and withal has found time for new things and has kept a progressive, open-minded attitude toward the material and social and spiritual progress of this generation. For example, early he took to flying, and has long since been a frequent passenger on commercial airlines, adding this to his list of hobbies, which already included the great outdoors, the blazing and marking of trails, the welfare of boys and young people, the preservation of historic sites, and making of friends. His devoted wife, Lucy Woodruff Smith, was called by death, November 5, 1937. His children, three in number, are Emily Smith Stewart (Mrs. Robert Murray Stewart ) ; Edith Smith Elliott (Mrs. George O. Elliott); and Dr. George Albert Smith, Jr., assistant dean of the graduate school of business administration, Harvard University. Between Brother Smith and his children and grandchildren there is a relationship of unfeigned devotion. This tolerant, understanding, kindly man has made friends among the "Who's Who" and among the humble and needy wherever he has gone in any capacity. His list of correspondents in all parts of the world is long and physically burdensome—but it is an abiding pleasure to him who has but one desire in his heart—the well-being here and the salvation hereafter of all his Father's children. His sincere friendship for the officials of many faiths is well-known— as is also his affectionate concern for his brethren. On occasions of conference assignment he has often been seen to push himself to travel and to preach when his reserve of strength could ill afford to be drawn upon. In the mountains among boys and young men he has been seen to share the fatherly love and companionship for his own son with less fortunate lads unknown to him and to whom he was not obligated by the usual standards—and it is these things, and a legion of others, that bring conviction that the Church — and his official brethren—will find in the new calling of President George Albert Smith a blessing and a benediction that will carry good works and kindly feelings to all the Church and to an uncounted many who are outside of Church membership. |
PRESIDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
GEORGE ALBERT SMITH, FRIENDMAKER
George Albert Smith, who has traveled widely in the interest of the Church, is seen here descending the steps of the L.D.S. Mission Home in Samoa accompanied by Mrs. Turnbull, wife of the then acting governor of the island, and followed by Acting Governor Turnbull and Elder Rufus K. Hardy. This was on the occasion of his official welcome to Apia, which was attended by more than three thousand people. GEORGE ALBERT SMITH, SCOUTER AND TRAILMAKER
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J. A. W. "President George Albert Smith." Improvement Era. August 1943. pg. 480.
President George Albert Smith
George Albert Smith has been called to the presidency of the Council of the Twelve. He will receive the unqualified support of the Church.
For nearly forty years he has stood before the people as one of their General Authorities. He has been tried and found not wanting. He will be supported in his labors by the love and confidence of all.
The senior member has always served as president of the Council of the Twelve. Therein lie safety and strength. This practice places the leadership of the quorum of apostles in the hands of a man who, because of long service, has been prepared for the responsibilities of the exalted calling. Constant visits to the stakes and public utterances have made his life as an open book. His faith and devotion have been tested. He has become familiar with the needs and practices of the Church. He may claim the necessary inspiration for his labors.
George Albert Smith is a lover of his fellow man. In public and private he has rendered service for human welfare. He has labored for youth, as in the Mutual Improvement Associations, for in our boys and girls lie the seeds of maturity. He has honored the builders of the past, as in the Utah Trails Association, for the lessons of history may be used to bless the present. He has recognized the needs of today, and he has blessed the sick, comforted the depressed and grieving, warned the sinner, encouraged the toiler, and praised earnest effort—and he has won the affection of multitudes. In his travels far and wide, he has gained friends for the cause of Christ. Honors have come to him from home and abroad, from people of many faiths and various pursuits. Withal he has remained a humble teacher of righteousness, of the restored gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.
George Albert Smith will continue the high traditions of the great men who have presided over the Council of the Twelve.
May he be endowed with every power and blessing belonging to his high calling, and may he be preserved in health to serve long the latter-day cause of the Lord. —J. A. W.
President George Albert Smith
George Albert Smith has been called to the presidency of the Council of the Twelve. He will receive the unqualified support of the Church.
For nearly forty years he has stood before the people as one of their General Authorities. He has been tried and found not wanting. He will be supported in his labors by the love and confidence of all.
The senior member has always served as president of the Council of the Twelve. Therein lie safety and strength. This practice places the leadership of the quorum of apostles in the hands of a man who, because of long service, has been prepared for the responsibilities of the exalted calling. Constant visits to the stakes and public utterances have made his life as an open book. His faith and devotion have been tested. He has become familiar with the needs and practices of the Church. He may claim the necessary inspiration for his labors.
George Albert Smith is a lover of his fellow man. In public and private he has rendered service for human welfare. He has labored for youth, as in the Mutual Improvement Associations, for in our boys and girls lie the seeds of maturity. He has honored the builders of the past, as in the Utah Trails Association, for the lessons of history may be used to bless the present. He has recognized the needs of today, and he has blessed the sick, comforted the depressed and grieving, warned the sinner, encouraged the toiler, and praised earnest effort—and he has won the affection of multitudes. In his travels far and wide, he has gained friends for the cause of Christ. Honors have come to him from home and abroad, from people of many faiths and various pursuits. Withal he has remained a humble teacher of righteousness, of the restored gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.
George Albert Smith will continue the high traditions of the great men who have presided over the Council of the Twelve.
May he be endowed with every power and blessing belonging to his high calling, and may he be preserved in health to serve long the latter-day cause of the Lord. —J. A. W.
"Our Cover Picture." Instructor. August 1943. pg. 408.
Our Cover Picture On the cover of this issue of The Instructor is a picture of George Albert Smith, recently appointed president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Following is an extract from remarks made by President Smith at a recent meeting of the General Board of the Sunday Schools. "I was in the 17th Ward Sunday School as a teacher when quite young and had experience in all departments from doorkeeper to superintendent. We started progressive lesson work under the direction of Superintendent Charles B. Felt. It took three years for pupils to complete the work in each department. We thought it was a lot of work and sometimes felt that our efforts were not appreciated by the people, but we kept at it just the same. "At twenty-one I was released and called upon a mission to the Southern States. Later I married Lucy Emily Woodruff, a teacher in the 17th Ward Sunday School. We were blessed with children. About twelve years after retiring as superintendent I went to the 1 7th Ward Sunday School as a visitor. I was then one of the Twelve Apostles. I found one of my children in the Kindergarten class and the teacher in that Kindergarten class had been my student in Sunday School. I went into the Primary class and found another child of mine and two of the teachers there had been my pupils in Sunday School. A daughter was in the Intermediate class and the supervisors in that department had also been pupils of mine in Sunday School. My reward for my devotion to the teaching of Sunday School children was to have those I had taught teach my children. Years later in another ward I visited a Kindergarten class and found that a former student of mine was teaching my first grandson. "You don't know how far your influence is going in the work you are doing. You are assisting the Lord's children to find the way to eternal happiness and they may be your own family. In my Sunday School work I was preparing those who were to teach my children, the most precious gift the Lord was to give me. If I hadn't done my best I might have lost an opportunity that I would have regretted forever." President Smith is a living example of the religious principles that the Sunday School Board is seeking to emphasize in the Sunday School classes throughout the Church. His major concern is with the "weightier matters" of the law, justice, kindness and integrity. He understands the problems of youth and sympathizes with their difficulties and is always ready to help them overcome these difficulties and to find satisfactory basis for faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. |
Lyman, Richard R. "Elder George Albert Smith." Instructor. September 1943. pg. 529.
Elder George Albert Smith Elder Richard R. Lyman Member of the Council of the Twelve BY the unanimous vote of his associates, George Albert Smith has been sustained as president of the Council of the Twelve Apostles. From his birth up to this very hour, this mild and gentle but effective and affectionate leader has been prepared for this position by Divine Providence. And now by that same power he has been nominated for this exalted place. John Smith, the great-grandfather of George Albert, and a presiding patriarch of the Church was an uncle of the Prophet Joseph Smith. George A. Smith, a member of the Council of Twelve, church historian, counselor to President Brigham Young, and the man who hauled the first load of stone for the Kirtland Temple was his grandfather. John Henry Smith, statesman, member of the Council of the Twelve, counselor to President Joseph F. Smith and a most eloquent and impressive defender of the faith was his father. Distinguished as his ancestors were, yet in this new president of the Council of the Twelve we have a thoroughly worthy descendant of these illustrious leaders, one whose life and labors have already added luster to that family name which shines so brilliantly with deeds of patriotism and unselfish religious devotion. All his days George Albert Smith has 'gone about doing good." No cry of want or distress has ever reached his ears in vain. The sick, the afflicted, the needy, and the heavy-laden, all get a ready response if their appeals are made to him. Literally thousands of friends and associates hold in their hearts love, admiration, and esteem for this modest, unassuming, but truly great man and genuine Latter-day Saint. Under the direction of George Albert Smith, the members of the Council of the Twelve are sure to be tied together by bonds of genuine affection, and unitedly and individually every member will have the freest possible opportunity, encouragement, and inspiration to do his best. |
ELDER GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
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"President George Albert Smith Becomes Eighth President of the Church." Improvement Era. June 1945. pg. 335.
PRESIDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH Becomes Eighth President of the Church President J. Reuben Clark, Jr., and President David O. McKay chosen as counselors in the First Presidency. President George F. Richards becomes president of the Council of the Twelve Apostles. We have delayed this issue of The Improvement Era to permit the publication of the addresses delivered at the funeral services for President Heber J. Grant. And now, as we go to press late, action is taken in which President George Albert Smith is sustained and set apart as President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, by unanimous vote, at a meeting of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, held in the Salt Lake Temple, Monday, May 21, 1945. President Smith chose as his counselors in the First Presidency, President J. Reuben Clark, Jr., and President David O. McKay, as first and second counselors, respectively, in which capacity each previously served under President Grant. At the same meeting, President George F. Richards, senior member of the Council of the Twelve, was sustained as president of the Council of the Twelve Apostles. President Smith was set apart by Elder George F. Richards, following which President Smith set apart President Clark, President McKay, and President Richards to their respective positions. We shall have more to say in our next issue concerning these men and their lives, their positions, and their Church service. Meanwhile, President George Albert Smith has authorized us to announce that he has consented to serve as The Improvement Era's senior editor (a position also filled by his two immediate predecessors, President Heber J. Grant and President Joseph F. Smith), and that the Editor's Page, now long established, will carry messages from him. President George Albert Smith, a man of wide friendships, of kindly heart, of rich experience, and of earnest devotion, has served the Church as one of its General Authorities for nearly forty-two years—since October 8, 1903, when he took his place in the Council of the Twelve, at which time, at the age of thirty-three, he was ordained an apostle by President Joseph F. Smith. The new President of the Church observed the seventy-fifth anniversary of his birth last April 4. For nearly two years prior to becoming President of the Church, he had served the Church as President of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles—to which office he was set apart July 8, 1943, following the death of President Rudger Clawson. For more concerning the life and lineage of President George Albert Smith we refer our readers to the article, "Who Was 'Uncle' John Smith," on page 336 of this issue, and to the July issue of the Era. The July issue will also carry an article on President George F. Richards, who has served the Church as an apostle for more than thirty-nine years—since April 9, 1906, at which time he was forty-five years of age. President Richards observed the eighty-fourth anniversary of his birth last February 23. |
PRESIDENT J. REUBEN CLARK, JR.
PRESIDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
Eighth President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints PRESIDENT DAVID O. McKAY
PRESIDENT GEORGE F. RICHARDS
Of the Council of the Twelve |
Giles, John D. "President George Albert Smith." Improvement Era. July 1945. pg. 388-389, 430-431.
President GEORGE ALBERT SMITH By John D. Giles Member of the General Board of Y.M.M.I.A., Executive Secretary-Treasurer Utah Pioneer Trails and Landmarks Association and "This Is the Place" Monument Commission Seven times in the last one hundred fifteen years the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been called upon to mourn the passing of its president. In the early days of the Church the passing of the President brought forth predictions that the death of the leader would mark the end of the Church. But with each succession in the Presidency, the Church has moved forward to ever-increasing accomplishment. The seventh President of the Church, Heber J. Grant, beloved and wise prophet, has gone to his reward; and a great reward truly it will be. The Lord in his wisdom and mercy has raised up another to take his place, one who by training, experience, service, and ancestry has been well and fully prepared for this greatest of responsibilities —that of serving, under the appointment of our Father in heaven, as prophet, seer, and revelator of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. President George Albert Smith becomes President of the Church at a time when his distinctive talents and special qualifications will assist him to meet the challenging problems the Church is facing today because of world conditions. With the nations in turmoil, with men's hearts failing them, with moral standards at a low ebb, with selfishness rampant, when the future to many appears uncertain and fearful, a kind and wise prophet arises to lead nearly a million of our Father's children in Latter-day Israel. There is no room in the heart of President George Albert Smith for hatred, for anger, for envy, for resentment, or for fear. To him have been given many of the qualities which can only be described as being Christlike. In widely scattered parts of the world he has preached the gospel of love and kindness. He has taught his fellow men that all the people of the earth are our Father's children, that regardless of race, creed, or color, all men are our brothers —and that we all shall stand before the judgment seat and account for our actions in mortality. At a time when the world needs love, kindness, and consideration for others, an ardent advocate of those needed virtues becomes the leader of nearly a million people whose lives should be devoted, as his has been, to preaching and practicing "good will toward men." "Spiritual vitality" are words used by a prominent writer to describe his most outstanding characteristic. President Smith is a friend maker. He understands and practices the principle that "to have friends you must be a friend." With this art and gift of friend-making his own illustrious and beloved father, John Henry Smith, was also richly blessed. His mother, Sarah Farr Smith, daughter of Lorin Farr, first mayor of Ogden, also had the happy faculty of drawing people to her. The friends President Smith has made for himself and for the Church are in many nations and in the islands of the sea. In London and Liverpool, on the continent of Europe, and in Scandinavia, amid the skyscrapers of New York, in other great cities of the East and South, and on the west coast, and from thereto the humble huts of the natives in Hawaii, New Zealand, Samoa, Tonga, and other islands of the Pacific, the name and face of the new President of the Church are known and welcomed. Nor is he a stranger among the Indian tribes of Western America. He has visited the homes of the Hopis, Navajos, Zunis, Bannocks, Shoshones, Goshutes, and many other tribes. In the historic places of the Church, President Smith has friends who look forward to his visits. In Palmyra, Harmony (Susquehanna), in Nauvoo, Independence, Omaha, and other areas where early Church history was written, people know and have good reason to remember favorably the man who has made himself their friend. On the railroads, which he has used extensively, porters, brakemen, conductors, and dining-car stewards to station masters, passenger agents, superintendents, and presidents, greet him with deference and courtesy. Senators, congressmen, governors, and numerous state, county and city officials are his friends. So are thousands of humble folk in all walks of life. He is one of the outstanding missionaries of the Church and never overlooks an opportunity to preach the gospel or to tell others about the Church. His many benefactions will never be known. Throughout his life he has helped others to carry their burdens; he has assisted the poor, the needy, the widows, and the fatherless. He has visited the sick and comforted those who have been caused to mourn. He has brought new vision and courage to boys and young men particularly who have become discouraged and were failing in the battle of life. His concern for the welfare of young people has been expressed in a type of missionary work that is individual and practical. He has won the love and confidence of those he has assisted, and has never in the least degree caused or permitted them to be embarrassed. In this work his kindness and friendship have been reinforced by tactfulness of an extraordinary kind, which has enabled him to win the hearts of boys and girls and men and women alike, and to bring to the surface the slumbering qualities which have given them new hope and confidence. One of his little publicized services was rendered as president of the Society for the Aid of the Sightless. Many of those who have lost their sight have reason to bless the efforts he has made in their behalf. During his presidency, the Book of Mormon was printed in Braille for the benefit of those who are unable to see. For a man of such pronounced spirituality, President Smith has had a remarkably wide and varied experience in secular and civic affairs. Even though handicapped by impaired vision as the result of excessive heat and sun-glare while with a surveying party which laid out the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad from Green River, Utah, he has never let his loss, serious as it has been, daunt his spirit or retard his progress. He has long been connected with leading commercial and industrial enterprises. When little more than a boy, he worked as an implement assembler and salesman for Grant Odell and Company and the Co-op Wagon and Machine Company, predecessor of the Consolidated Wagon & Machine Company. He was a clothing factory employee and later a salesman for Z.C.M.I., where he had the unique distinction of never having been asked to itemize his expense account. Recently he was elected president of that institution. He has served over many years as a member of the board of directors of several large western institutions. He is now president of Utah State National Bank, Zion Savings Bank and Trust Company, Beneficial Life Insurance Company, and Utah-Idaho Sugar Company. He is vice president and a director of Utah Savings and Trust Company. He served as director of the historic Salt Lake Theater, of the Libbey Investment Company, Mutual Creamery, and of Heber J. Grant and Company. As a student he attended the Salt Lake City public schools, Brigham Young University, and the University of Utah. He is now president of the board of Brigham Young University. One of the pioneers in America as an airplane passenger, President Smith has served as a director of Western Air Lines for several years. He was responsible for the preparation of a log of the route of that air line showing the historic places on the route from San Diego, California, to Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada. The first Latter-day Saint to be honored with an appointment to a federal office, he became Receiver of Public Moneys and Disbursing Agent for Utah in 1 898. His appointment was made by William McKinley, and he was reappointed by Theodore Roosevelt. His judgment, vision, and unquestioned integrity would have insured his outstanding success had he chosen to follow a business career. He has preached the gospel of honest work, of thrift, of good homes, of education, and of progress. Through it all he has been practical and consistent. He has preached only what he has practiced. He has never advocated that others should do what he was not willing to do first. His leadership is of the kind that leads by both precept and example. The new President of the Church is a man of action. He believes in completing any task once begun. His patriotism and love of country have been demonstrated by his life's activities. As a young man he served in the Utah National Guard as first sergeant of Troop C, First Cavalry. During World War I, he was a member of the State Council of Defense and chairman of the Armenian and Syrian relief committee. At various other times he has served on local, state, and national committees in patriotic service. National recognition came to President Smith while he was still a young man. More than thirty years ago, in 1913, he was elected vice president of the International Irrigation Congress, and two years later became its president. In 1917 he became president of the International Dry Farm Congress. When these two groups were merged, he was chosen as president. The Sons of the American Revolution elected him National Vice-President General in 1926, and since that time he has been a national officer. He served as president of the Utah Society of that group in 1918-1919 and served as a director at various times. He represented the Utah Society at national meetings in New York, Newark, Rochester, and Detroit. In 1944, even though conditions prevented his attendance, he was re-elected to the second highest office in the national organization, a position he still holds. He came by his membership in that patriotic organization deservedly. One of his ancestors was Edward Winslow of the Mayflower who later became governor of the Plymouth Colony. His family lines include those of the Libbeys, Freemans, Hoveys, and Lords of New England. In the Revolution his family was represented by Samuel Smith, chairman of the Committee of Safety at Topsfield, Massachusetts; by Asael Smith, son of Samuel; by Jonathan Farr, and by Timothy Chase, aide to General George Washington. There are to his credit many achievements, but none more outstanding than his work among the youth of the Church and of the nation. In religious teaching, character development, in the cultural arts, in vocational exploration and guidance, in clean sports and wholesome recreation, his inspiring leadership among the young people of the Church has attracted wide attention. Among the leaders of the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America, which he has served for many years as a member of the National Executive Board and chairman of several influential committees, his counsel, advice, and leadership have been long and frequently sought. At the annual meetings of the National Council, where he has served several years as chairman of the important committee on program and resolutions, he has had a prominent place, and his voice has been heard where plans and policies looking to the welfare of the boys of America have been discussed. In scouting, which he has served in the Salt Lake Council, in Region 12, and in the National Council, President Smith has received the highest honors which both local councils and the National Council can bestow. In 1932, he was awarded the Silver Beaver by the Salt Lake Council where he has been a member of the executive board for more than twenty years, receiving one of its first awards; and the Silver Buffalo by the National Council in 1934. Few men have been accorded this double distinction. Receiving the Silver Buffalo Award at the same time as President Smith were the Honorable Newton D. Baker, Secretary of War in Woodrow Wilson's Cabinet, and Colonel Theodore Roosevelt, Jr. When President Smith received his Silver Buffalo Award, the following citation was read by the chairman of the National Court of Honor: GEORGE ALBERT SMITH: Business executive, religious leader. Former president of the International Irrigation Congress and International Dry Farm Congress, Federal Receiver of Public Moneys and Special Disbursing Agent for the State of Utah. Member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and General Superintendent of the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association of that Church. Organizer and president of the Utah Pioneer Trails and Landmarks Association. Member of the National Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of America, Program Divisional Committee, Committee on Relationships, and of its Region Twelve Executive Committee, and identified with its local activities continually almost since its organization. He has been indefatigable in serving the cause of scouting, and to his enthusiasm for its program must be largely traced the fact that Utah stands above all other states in the percentage of boys who are Scouts. President Smith's love of pioneer history and his high regard for the early leaders of the Church have caused him to follow pioneer trails in all parts of western America particularly. From Nauvoo to Salt Lake City, he has traveled practically every foot of the old Mormon Trail that is accessible, some portions many times, and most of the side trails, north, south, and west. To him, to follow and enjoy the romance and adventure and the sacred memories of the old trails has not been enough. He has wanted to share these experiences with others. Under his leadership as president of the Utah Pioneer Trails and Landmarks Association, of which he was the organizer in 1930, caravans and special groups have been organized to re-explore and mark the old trails and story spots of the West. Under his direction these groups have placed, either directly or in cooperation with others, more than one hundred permanent .markers in locations from Nauvoo on the east, to the Sierras on the west, and from St. Anthony in Idaho to Sunset, Arizona. One ambition of President Smith is to climax his activities in trail marking by participating in the movement to erect a monument at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, to be dedicated July 24, 1947, as a part of the centennial celebration. {See "Preparing for 1947, May Eta, p. 256. ) He served as vice chairman of the Monument Commission and as chairman of the executive committee in all the preliminary preparations and has now been appointed as chairman of the commission succeeding President Heber J. Grant. In the Oregon Trail Memorial Association he has been a member of the executive committee and vice president, and is now an honorary life member. One of the organizers of the American Pioneer Trails Association, he has served from the beginning as a member of the executive board. The man who now heads the Church literally has grown gray in its service. Following his activity in the Sunday Schools of the Seventeenth Ward and of Salt Lake Stake, when that stake included practically all of Salt Lake Valley, he was one of the presidents of the Third Quorum of Seventy. Later he became stake superintendent of the Y.M.M.I.A. and was in that position when he was called to be an apostle, October 6, 1903, at the age of 33. For ten years, from 1925 to 1935, he was general superintendent of the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association. There his love for youth was manifested in a zeal and devotion that caused that organization to reflect his spirituality and quiet dignity to the far corners of the Church. His connection with that organization was severed only when all the General Authorities of the Church were released as heads of the auxiliary organizations in 1935. In 1929 as General Superintendent of the Y.M.M.I.A., President Smith was responsible for the calling of a special committee to study the field and possibilities of The Improvement Eta and to make it in every way representative of the Church. It was due to his vision and inspiration that The Improvement Eta was revised in form, enlarged in size and expanded in both scope and content. His first mission was spent in the Southern States where after five months in the field he became secretary under President J. Golden Kimball, and carried much of the responsibility of the mission headquarters at Chattanooga, Tennessee. From 1919 to 1921 he presided over the European Mission during which time he traveled extensively throughout the British Isles, Scandinavia, and the countries of continental Europe. President Smith is an intelligent organizer and successful executive. He has the ability to draw out the very best service from those with whom he is associated by wise counsel, encouragement, and the judicious use of deserved commendation. The virtues and character traits which have made President Smith beloved by so many people, in and out of the Church, serve to make his home life ideal. He married his boyhood sweetheart, Lucy Emily Woodruff, daughter of Wilford Woodruff, Jr. She died eight years ago. To them were born three children, all living. They are Emily Smith Stewart, wife of Robert Murray Stewart, prominent Salt Lake attorney; Edith Smith Elliott, wife of George O. Elliott, an executive of the Utah-Idaho Sugar Company, and George Albert Smith, Jr., who is assistant dean of the Harvard University Graduate School of Business Administration at Cambridge, Massachusetts. There are eight grandchildren. The family home, which for many years has been at 1302 Yale Avenue, Salt Lake City, reflects cordiality and hospitality. Friends of the family and other visitors have always been treated with utmost courtesy and consideration. Many distinguished visitors from various parts of America and Europe have been entertained in this modest home which radiates comfort and tranquility. His is one of the most delightful and picturesque homes in a city noted for beautiful homes. In the Red Butte ravine, within one hundred yards of the residence is the "country home," a cabin built on the banks of Red Butte Creek, which runs through the yard. During the summer it furnishes a delightful retreat with temperature ranging many degrees lower than the surrounding area. The native trees which have been left standing provide a miniature forest surrounding the "canyon" cottage. President Smith's gracious wife, who like himself was a real friend maker, was his constant and loyal companion. Together they shared the burdens and blessings of life. People in many parts of the world, not of our faith, and loyal members of the Church throughout the world will gladly sustain President George Albert Smith as President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and give to him their united support and cooperation. |
PRESIDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
PRESIDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH AT FOUR YEARS Of AGE
PRESIDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH ABOUT THE
TIME OF HIS MARRIAGE LUCY EMILY WOODRUFF SMITH IN HER WEDDING GOWN
EMILY SMITH STEWART
EDITH SMITH ELLIOTT
GEORGE ALBERT SMITH, JR.
|
"George Albert Smith, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints." Improvement Era. July 1945. pg. 404.
George Albert Smith President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
"Lovest thou me?" Then, "feed my sheep." By that divine test, President George Albert Smith loves the Lord mightily. In season and out of season, throughout his life, he has sought out those ill at ease, in body, mind, or spirit, and has given them comfort and courage. He has walked in upon the needy, usually without previous appointment, to bless them and to help them. When he has left, the spirit of life and peace has remained. The mighty and the humble, the high and the low, of any station and every condition, saints and sinners, have received his compassionate ministrations, as far as his strength would permit. As all are of the divine family, all were his brethren and sisters. It was not for him to choose. He served them all.
This is the key to President Smith's life and labors. It is also a proof of his fitness to serve his generation as the Lord's mouthpiece. Only with love, deep, sincere, unending, can the Lord's purposes be consummated. Without love we are but as "sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal."
Youth has always received President Smith's earnest attention. In every boy and girl he has seen the coming man and woman. To prepare them for life and its duties, to teach them truth as a shield against temptation and sin, and to qualify them to carry onward the latter-day work of the Lord, has been his eager thought and desire.
He has been a constant friend of womanhood. He has recognized the powerful service of women in building the kingdom of God and in preserving faith among the people, especially in the hearts of their children and husbands. He has seen with admiring eyes, sometimes through tears, the sacrifices of the mothers and wives of modern Israel. He has ever been willing to accord them their rightful place and honor by the side of man in the establishment of the Lord's work, which is for men and woman alike.
He has admonished the priesthood of the Church to study the gospel, to remain active in doing good works, and to labor in a spirit of love of God and man. The certainty of the conquering power of the priesthood, divine power, over evil, and for righteousness, has been a favorite theme in his public and private speech. There is no fear in his heart as to the outcome of the Lord's purposes, if we will but honor God's gifts to us.
President Smith comes well equipped to the high position as president, prophet, seer, and revelator to the Church. He comes of a noble pedigree within the Church. His forebears are traced to the very beginning of American civilization. In his veins runs the best blood of the world. Honors have come to him in state and nation. In education, business, and public affairs he has held notable positions and has been a wise counselor. He is intelligent, well-informed, widely traveled, and experienced in the affairs of men. He knows the gospel and has lived its doctrine all his life. While he is a man among men, he is, above all else, a humble, devoted servant of God. He may be trusted to direct, in fairness and understanding, the temporal as well as the spiritual concerns of the Church. His simple reliance upon the Lord will make him sensitive to the divine message from the mind of God. Therefore, his labors will be acceptable to the Church and to all concerned.
It was a solemn day, Monday, May 21, 1945, when the Twelve Apostles, fasting and praying, assembled in the Salt Lake Temple to consider the future government of the Church. When the call to the presidency came to George Albert Smith, then President of the Council of the Twelve, all were happy. With beautiful, simple, and impressive words, he was ordained and set apart to this high office—the greatest in the world — Elder George F. Richards being voice, he ranking next in length of service in the Council of the Twelve.
Now it is our privilege to support our President, chosen of God, with our faith, prayers, and righteous works. As we do so, we shall prosper. The word of the Lord on April 6, 1830, concerning the first elder of the Church, is binding upon us today as then:
Thou [the Church] shalt give heed unto all his words and commandments which he shall give unto you as he receiveth them, walking in all holiness before me; for his word ye shall receive, as if from mine own mouth, in all patience and faith. For by doing these things the gates of hell shall not prevail against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the powers of darkness from before you, and cause the heavens to shake for your good, and his name's glory.
George Albert Smith President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
"Lovest thou me?" Then, "feed my sheep." By that divine test, President George Albert Smith loves the Lord mightily. In season and out of season, throughout his life, he has sought out those ill at ease, in body, mind, or spirit, and has given them comfort and courage. He has walked in upon the needy, usually without previous appointment, to bless them and to help them. When he has left, the spirit of life and peace has remained. The mighty and the humble, the high and the low, of any station and every condition, saints and sinners, have received his compassionate ministrations, as far as his strength would permit. As all are of the divine family, all were his brethren and sisters. It was not for him to choose. He served them all.
This is the key to President Smith's life and labors. It is also a proof of his fitness to serve his generation as the Lord's mouthpiece. Only with love, deep, sincere, unending, can the Lord's purposes be consummated. Without love we are but as "sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal."
Youth has always received President Smith's earnest attention. In every boy and girl he has seen the coming man and woman. To prepare them for life and its duties, to teach them truth as a shield against temptation and sin, and to qualify them to carry onward the latter-day work of the Lord, has been his eager thought and desire.
He has been a constant friend of womanhood. He has recognized the powerful service of women in building the kingdom of God and in preserving faith among the people, especially in the hearts of their children and husbands. He has seen with admiring eyes, sometimes through tears, the sacrifices of the mothers and wives of modern Israel. He has ever been willing to accord them their rightful place and honor by the side of man in the establishment of the Lord's work, which is for men and woman alike.
He has admonished the priesthood of the Church to study the gospel, to remain active in doing good works, and to labor in a spirit of love of God and man. The certainty of the conquering power of the priesthood, divine power, over evil, and for righteousness, has been a favorite theme in his public and private speech. There is no fear in his heart as to the outcome of the Lord's purposes, if we will but honor God's gifts to us.
President Smith comes well equipped to the high position as president, prophet, seer, and revelator to the Church. He comes of a noble pedigree within the Church. His forebears are traced to the very beginning of American civilization. In his veins runs the best blood of the world. Honors have come to him in state and nation. In education, business, and public affairs he has held notable positions and has been a wise counselor. He is intelligent, well-informed, widely traveled, and experienced in the affairs of men. He knows the gospel and has lived its doctrine all his life. While he is a man among men, he is, above all else, a humble, devoted servant of God. He may be trusted to direct, in fairness and understanding, the temporal as well as the spiritual concerns of the Church. His simple reliance upon the Lord will make him sensitive to the divine message from the mind of God. Therefore, his labors will be acceptable to the Church and to all concerned.
It was a solemn day, Monday, May 21, 1945, when the Twelve Apostles, fasting and praying, assembled in the Salt Lake Temple to consider the future government of the Church. When the call to the presidency came to George Albert Smith, then President of the Council of the Twelve, all were happy. With beautiful, simple, and impressive words, he was ordained and set apart to this high office—the greatest in the world — Elder George F. Richards being voice, he ranking next in length of service in the Council of the Twelve.
Now it is our privilege to support our President, chosen of God, with our faith, prayers, and righteous works. As we do so, we shall prosper. The word of the Lord on April 6, 1830, concerning the first elder of the Church, is binding upon us today as then:
Thou [the Church] shalt give heed unto all his words and commandments which he shall give unto you as he receiveth them, walking in all holiness before me; for his word ye shall receive, as if from mine own mouth, in all patience and faith. For by doing these things the gates of hell shall not prevail against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the powers of darkness from before you, and cause the heavens to shake for your good, and his name's glory.
Nibley, Preston. "President George Albert Smith." Relief Society Magazine. July 1945. pg. 386-392.
President George Albert Smith Preston Nibley ONE week after the death of President Heber J. Grant, at a meeting of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, held in the Salt Lake Temple on Monday, May 21st, 1945, George Albert Smith, the senior member and President of the Quorum, was sustained as the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, when the announcement of his selection was made known, and the news spread abroad, universal approval and satisfaction were expressed by the saints throughout the stakes and missions of the Church. President Smith, who has traveled extensively during the forty-two years that he has been a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, is widely known and greatly beloved. The Latter-day Saints feel to give thanks in their hearts that God has again raised up a new leader in Israel. President Smith comes from a long line of faithful and devout men who have given their time and talents freely and unselfishly in forwarding the great work which was begun by the Prophet Joseph Smith. His great-grandfather was John Smith, familiarly known in Church history as "Uncle John," a brother of Joseph Smith, Senior. Uncle John was living in Potsdam. New York, in the summer of 1830, peacefully pursuing his vocation as a farmer, when his brother Joseph came from Palmyra to visit him and convey a very important message, to present him with a copy of the Book of Mormon and relate to him the story of the wonderful visions and manifestations which had been given to his son, Joseph Junior. Uncle John heard the message of his brother and believed. He and his wife and their eldest son George A. (after whom President Smith was named) were shortly thereafter baptized, and, in the summer of 1833, they made their way to Kirtland, Ohio, the gathering place of the saints. In the spring of 1839, George A. Smith, twenty-one years old at the time, was selected to be a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles by the Prophet Joseph Smith, and was set apart in that high calling on April 26th of the same year by Heber C. Kimball. Thereafter he was very active as a missionary both in this and in foreign lands, Uncle John and his son, George A., experienced the persecutions of the saints in Missouri and Illinois. In 1847, they both came to Utah with the pioneers, George A. being a member of the original company. When the latter returned to the Missouri River in the fall of 1847, he located on a farm near Kanesville, Iowa, and there on September 18th, 1848, a son was born to his wife, Sarah Ann Libby, who was named John Henry. The following year, George A. Smith moved to Salt Lake Valley to make his permanent home. He brought his wife and infant son with him. John Henry Smith grew to manhood in Salt Lake City. One month after his eighteenth birthday, he was married to Sarah Farr, daughter of Lorin Farr of Ogden. The first child born to this couple, a son, named John Henry, died in infancy. On April 4th, 1870, a second son arrived who was named George Albert, after his paternal grandfather. Today, George Albert Smith is the honored President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the eighth man to hold that high and important calling since the Church was organized in 1830. President Smith grew to manhood in the Seventeenth Ward, Salt Lake City. In his home, he learned all those beautiful and impressive principles which have animated him throughout his life. His mother bestowed all the love and affection and tender care upon her children that it was possible for a woman to give. His father was a very exceptional and capable man, a true missionary and advocate of the principles of the gospel. When George Albert was ten years of age, his father, John Henry Smith, was chosen to be a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, following in the footsteps of his worthy and esteemed father. President George Albert Smith obtained his early education in the public schools of Salt Lake City. Later he was enrolled as a student at the Brigham Young Academy in Provo. There he came under the influence of that remarkable teacher, Karl G. Maeser, from whom he learned many valuable and impressive teachings which have remained with him through life. Returning to Salt Lake City, he took courses at the State University and continued his education. In 1892, shortly after his marriage to Lucy Emily Woodruff, daughter of Emily Jane Smith and Wilford Woodruff, Jr., George Albert left Salt Lake City on a mission to the Southern States. In a few months his wife followed him and together they performed their missionary labors, spending most of their time in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where Elder Smith acted as secretary of the Southern States Mission. On being released in July 1894, Elder Smith returned to Salt Lake City and was employed by the Zion's Co-operative Mercantile Institution until February 10th, 1898, when he was appointed receiver of the United States Land Office for Utah by President William McKinley. He held this position until he was chosen a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles at the October conference in 1903. Since he became an apostle, nearly forty-two years ago. President Smith has labored unceasingly for the welfare and advancement of the Church. It would require much more space than has been allotted to us here to enumerate his many activities. He has visited all the stakes and most of the missions of the Church. In 1919, shortly after the first World War, he was called to preside over the European Mission and in that capacity he traveled throughout Great Britain and on the Continent where the missions of the Church are located. On July 14, 1921, President Smith was released from his presidency in Europe. He returned at once to Salt Lake City and resumed his activity in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Two years ago, he became the president of this Quorum following the death of President Rudger Clawson. He held this position until he became President of the Church on May 21st, following the death of President Heber J. Grant. Many honors have come to President Smith during the course of his busy life. At Calgary, Canada, in 1913, he was elected president of the International Irrigation Congress. The following year at Sacramento he was again re-elected to the same position, and in 1915 at El Paso, Texas, he was named president of that organization. Two years later he was elected president of the International Dry Farming Congress at Peoria, Illinois, and elected president of the Combined Irrigation and Dry Farming Congress at Kansas City in 1918. For many years, President Smith was active in the organization of the Sons of the American Revolution, and was six times elected as vice-president general. In 1918 and 1919 he was president of the Utah Society of S. A. R. He was one of the organizers of the Utah Pioneer Trails and Landmarks Association, and has continued as president of the organization since that time. He has recently been appointed chairman of the "This Is The Place" Monument Commission which is directing the preparation of the monument to be unveiled during the Utah Centennial in 1947 at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, where the pioneers first entered Salt Lake Valley. President Smith became a member of the General Board of Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association in 1904, and served until 1921 when he was named as general superintendent. He stood at the head of this great Church auxiliary for fifteen years. This work brought him in touch with scouting, in which he has taken an extremely active interest. He has ranked as the highest scout official in the Church, being given the Silver Buffalo. He has served for years as a member of the national executive board, Boy Scouts of America. To know President George Albert Smith is to love him. He is friendly, kind, considerate, devoted, and does not harbor animosity towards any human being. More than any man we know he has that rare quality of soul which permits him to exemplify the teachings of the Savior when he said: ''Love your enemies; pray for them which despitefully use you. An index to his character may be found in a statement written by himself and published in the Improvement Era in January 1932. “I would be a friend to the friendless and find joy in ministering to the poor. I would visit the sick and afflicted and inspire in them a desire for faith to be healed. I would teach the truth to the understanding and blessing of all mankind. I would seek out the erring one and try to win him back to a righteous and happy life. I would not seek to force people to live up to my ideals, but rather love them into doing the thing that is right. I would live with the masses and help to solve their problems that their earth life may be happy. I would avoid the publicity of high positions and discourage the flattery of thoughtless friends. I would not knowingly wound the feelings of any, not even one who may have wronged me, but would seek to do him good and make him my friend. I would overcome the tendency to selfishness and jealousy and rejoice in the success of all the children of my Heavenly Father. I would not be an enemy to any living soul. Knowing that the Redeemer of mankind has offered to the world the only plan that will fully develop us and make us really happy here and hereafter, I feel it not only a duty, but a blessed privilege to disseminate this truth." President Smith's congenial and happy home life was saddened, in November 1937, by the death of his dear and loving wife. Lucy Woodruff Smith was an ideal companion for her husband. She was a childhood sweetheart, devoted to her family, loyal to her Church, sympathetic and helpful to President Smith in the multifarious duties which he has undertaken during his public career. President Smith has three children, one son and two daughters. They are George Albert Smith Jr., Assistant Dean of the Graduate School of Business Administration at Harvard University; Mrs. Emily Smith Stewart; and Mrs. Edith Smith Elliott of Salt Lake City. There are eight grandchildren. Our good wishes go with President Smith in the great responsibility which has come to him and we pray that his life may be extended for many years and that he may find joy and satisfaction in his labors. |
PRESIDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
Eighth President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints HONEYMOON AT NIAGARA FALLS
President George Albert Smith and Lucy Emily Woodruff Lucy Emily Woodruff Smith, wife of President George Albert Smith, and their daughters: left, Emily Smith Stewart and right, Edith Smith Elliott.
THREE GENERATIONS, left to right: George Albert Smith V; George Albert Smith, Jr.; President George Albert Smith.
(This photograph was taken in 1937). President George Albert Smith and four of his grandchildren, left to right: Nancy Lucy Elliott, President Smith, Shauna Lucy Stewart, Martha Re June Stewart and George Thomas Elliott.
President Smith's other grandchildren are: Robert Murray Stewart, Jr., who recently graduated from the Electrical Engineering Department at Ames, Iowa, in the Navy V-12 program with high honors; George Albert Smith V; Samuel Nowell Smith; Robert Nowell Smith. |
Nibley, Preston. "President George Albert Smith as Salesman." Improvement Era. December 1946. pg. 780-781, 829-831.
President George Albert Smith as Salesman By Preston Nibley As I write this article, I have before me a small record book, bound in red leather, which contains the first diary ever kept by the beloved President of the Church, George Albert Smith. The opening page reveals that the diary was begun on May 21, 1890, one month and seventeen days past his twentieth birthday. In 1890, George Albert, as he was familiarly known to his relatives and friends, lived with his parents and brothers and sisters at the family home on West Temple Street, directly west of Temple Square. His father, John Henry Smith, was, at the time, one of the leading men of the Church and the Territory. He was a member of the Council of the Twelve, and a few years previously had presided over the European Mission. He had taken an active part in politics and had been a member of both the city council and the territorial legislature. He was known as a substantial, dependable man, a man of great force of character, a pillar of strength in the community. In addition to his own personal accomplishments, John Henry Smith was distinguished by being the son of a great father, President George A. Smith, one-time counselor to President Brigham Young, and a member of the original band of Pioneers that came to Utah in July 1847. George Albert Smith's mother was Sarah Farr, daughter of Lorin Farr, a pioneer of Weber County and one of the most prominent men of northern Utah. Sarah Farr Smith possessed all the beautiful attributes that a mother could have; she was kind, considerate, loving, tender, and true. This writer remembers her well and has enjoyed the hospitality of her home. Thus George Albert Smith was born in a distinguished family and was given a name which it was an honor to bear. He has added laurels to that name. In reading this little diary, I was impressed with the fact that the boy possessed the same characteristics that now distinguish the man. His character appears to have been formed at that early age. He was friendly, kind, considerate, energetic, loyal to his Church and to its principles, determined to do only what was right and just in the eyes of God and man; to work out his salvation and preserve himself unblemished from the world. From his earliest youth, his life appears to have gone forward in a straight line, without deviation to the right or to the left. What an example to all of us as we strive to make our way through this complex and troubled world! ONE prominent attribute that the young man possessed was his independence of character, a desire to make his own way through life and take care of himself. Thus at nineteen years of age we find him leaving school and preparing to launch out on a business career. He at once obtained employment with Zion's Cooperative Mercantile Institution and became a salesman for that firm, journeying through the towns and villages of southern Utah. As the diary begins, we note that it is the account of the second trip over the route. A previous journey had been made of which we have no record. George Albert's companion on this second journey is known to us only as "Jim." And now to our story. The first entry is dated Salt Lake City, May 21, 1890. Started today on a trip to Panaca, [Nevada]. Was delayed three hours on account of a disabled wagon. Left Salt Lake at 12:15 p.m. and arrived at American Fork at seven o'clock, both horses lame. Met five Z.C.M.I. men in one hotel. Spent the evening at the hotel visiting and practising on guitar while Jim played the flute. The town of Panaca is a small "Mormon" community of about three hundred people, located now in Lincoln County, Nevada, ninety miles northwest of St. George. Fifty-six years ago it was much more primitive; an outpost of the "Mormon" settlements. Panaca was the objective of the two salesmen, and they intended to cover all the towns between Salt Lake City and that place. George Albert was taking orders for groceries and Jim for shoes. Their transportation was a covered wagon pulled by a team of horses, none too fast on their feet and inclined to become lame. In the wagon were the personal effects of the two men, their bedding, and a complete camping outfit in case they were stalled overnight far from some habitation. They also brought along their musical instruments. George Albert played the guitar and harmonica, and Jim, the flute. Brother George also carried a set of Indian clubs and dumbbells to keep his muscles trim and perhaps to give an exhibition or two to the residents of the outlying villages. And so the two salesmen set forth on their journey. Their first stop was American Fork, where they arrived, after seven hours of travel, with a lame team. They averaged a little better than four miles an hour. Between Salt Lake City and American Fork, Jim, the elder of the two men, confided to George Albert that he had brought along a jug of whiskey with which to treat his customers. This news did not set well with George Albert; he was the son of an apostle and the grandson of an apostle; he had been brought up in a home where the Word of Wisdom had been scrupulously observed. "No, that will not do at all," he thought, "somewhere, somehow I must contrive to get rid of that whiskey." The opportunity came to him a few nights later in Provo. While Jim was away from the wagon, George Albert located the jug and gave it to a friend with instructions to pour out the whiskey and refill the jug with water. The friend complied, and in a few minutes the jug, filled with ill-smelling sulfur water from a flowing well, was back in its place in the wagon. It was a day or two before Jim found out about this magic change of whiskey into water, as we shall see later in this story. Meantime, here is the second day's entry. May 22: Sold five bills of goods in American Fork and left for Pleasant Grove. Sold two bills there and got to Provo before eight o'clock. Horses still lame, but not so bad. Called and took supper with grandma. Grace has a fine boy, born on Sunday last. Jim not in yet. Other boys downstairs smoking and playing cards. I feel very tired from the effects of hard work. Weather is all that can be asked. The country is the most beautiful that I have ever seen. It is a perfect garden. Provo is building a street railway. Met a number of my old friends from whom I received a hearty welcome. A few words of explanation of the above paragraph. Grandma, of whom George Albert speaks, and with whom he took supper, was his father's foster mother, Hannah Maria Libbey Smith, wife of President George A. Smith. The third entry is made in Provo and dated May 23rd. Arose at 6:30. Exercised with dumbbells about thirty minutes, and Indian clubs the same. Had team hitched up to go to Springville but changed my mind and took the train. Sold two bills in Springville and got back to Provo again at six o'clock. After supper helped the West Co-op move goods until nearly twelve o'clock. The rest of the boys are not in yet. Wrote to mother and Lucy today. Lucy was the sweetheart that George Albert had left in Salt Lake City—Lucy Emily Woodruff, eldest daughter of Wilford Woodruff, Jr., and Emily Jane Smith. Lucy was fifteen months older than George Albert, and at the time he was making this trip south, she was employed in the county surveyor's office. She has been described by one who knew her at the time as "a charming young woman with a smile that any girl might envy." ON May 24th the salesmen continued their journey southward. Sold Provo West Co-op early in the morning. Went to Springville for dinner; sold two bills. After dinner went to Spanish Fork. Sold one bill and got to Payson in time to sell two bills. Am feeling first rate. The weather is quite warm. Jim is a little homesick. Somebody has borrowed our whip. And then the following under date of Sunday, May 25th, while still at Payson. This morning is very pleasant. The locust trees in front of the house throw off a very sweet perfume. Went to Sunday School. Was called to address the theological class, as was also Jim. I attended meeting this afternoon. I wrote to Lucy. Mailed all of my orders that I have written. Have thought a number of times that I would like to be home today. Have read considerable in the book The Prince of the House of David. Was amused at Jim when he found that somebody had taken his whiskey and filled his demijohn with water. So the secret was out. Recently, while in conversation with President Smith, I reminded him of this incident which occurred fifty-six years ago. He readily remembered it. After a hearty laugh he said, "Yes, I remember that Jim Was pretty sore when he found that his whiskey was gone." On the morning of the 26th, the travelers left for Nephi. Left Payson for Nephi at four-thirty a.m. Arrived at Nephi at nine-thirty. Shipped five hundred pounds of oats to Milford. Cost $2.10 per cwt. The heat is very oppressive and the roads very dusty. Bridges reported washed out farther down; My tie pin captures the people. Had my head shingled close. Sold a fine bill here. Expected a letter but was disappointed very much at not getting one. Yes, he evidently looked for a letter from Lucy while at Nephi, but it was not in the post office, and he was disappointed. Next morning the salesmen were off to the south again. Left Nephi for Juab at four twenty-five a.m. Got there in time for breakfast. Sold Levan Co-op. Saw Father there. Had a breakdown and had to stop and repair it. Left Juab about three o'clock for Scipio, the wind blowing a gale, dust flying, and the weather sultry. Met a number of men from Sevier county and had a very pleasant time with them. Sevier River very high. Had to cross water to get to the bridge. Gathered a nice bouquet of flowers on the hills. Spent the evening at the hotel playing guitar accompaniment to Jim's flute. May 28. Very pleasant day. Sold two nice bills. Drove from Scipio to Holden. Met Maynes there. Jim feels very good at seeing somebody from home. The drive was quite a hard one—downhill and no brake. Beer was drunk this evening, but I refused. Held a concert in the parlor, Maynes singing. Jim singing and flute. I played guitar and harmonica. Bed hard—room small. The above comment about not drinking beer when it was served at the hotel is significant. President Smith holds his high position in the Church today on account of his scrupulous observance of the gospel principles from his youth until the present time. The next stopping place was Fillmore. May 29. Sold one bill at Holden. Left for Fillmore at five o'clock p.m. Met another traveling man I am acquainted with (er ist Deutsch). The bridge is reported gone at Juab crossing. I don't think it is probable. The river has been swelled by the bursting of the Gunnison reservoir. Saw a large flock of quail today. Gave exhibition of club swinging at the hotel. The entries of the next few days are filled with human interest. I shall copy them exactly as they were written in the diary. May 30. Had all the strawberries I wanted for the first time this year. Sold two bills of goods. Had a pleasant chat with E. Olsen. Was pressed to go to a dance but stayed at the hotel while Jim went. Had wagon repaired. Dislike the thoughts of leaving this nice comfortable place in the morning. The next two days were spent at Meadow where the salesmen enjoyed themselves with their friends. May 31. Left Fillmore about nine o'clock for Meadow. Was received very warmly by Brother Greenhalgh. Sold him a bill of goods. Met Sister Bennett; was invited to come and see them. In the evening quite a crowd of people assembled in the parlor of Bro. G.'s house to hear James and myself play. We made quite a favorable impression. They kept us playing until nearly twelve o'clock. June 1. Went to Sunday School. School called to order promptly at 10:47. [This is an example of the rich humor which has always been native with President George Albert Smith,] Went to afternoon meeting. Was called on to speak. Visited Brother Bennett after meeting. Received very kindly by all the folks in Meadow. I found that I am related to them all. Wrote to Lucy. June 2. Left Meadow for Kanosh about nine o'clock. Sold one bill. Left Kanosh for Milford at six thirty p.m., the wind blowing a gale. Saw a red fox. Arrived at the Antelope Spring one hour after midnight. Found Owen and Harry there. Woke them up and had a chat with them. Saw a little boy who was burned with powder. We left the Spring at five o'clock for Milford. It was very cold. James felt the cold very much. Had to go around the fields to get into town. Was caught in a hail storm. Received letter from A. H. Wooley. Begin to think that I am no good—the folks won't write me. Left Milford for Minersville; forded the Beaver River; the ford is a very good one. Received very kindly at Brother Baker's family. Spent the evening with music. Jim is in a terrible rush to get home. Weather quite cold; a fire quite comfortable. Made seventy-four miles in the twenty-four hours just past. The journey continues, and the bills of goods are sold. Minersville was reached on the 4th, where "a nice bill was sold." Next day the team jogged on to Beaver, and here George Albert was made happy as he received four letters, possibly all from his beloved Lucy. June 5. Leave Minersville at four thirty-five for Beaver. Morning very cold. I arrived just in time to see Father. He had already started. Visited Ft. Cameron. The Fort has been a beautiful place. Saw Tillie Barton. Invited to go to the canyons. Received four letters. Wrote to Lucy. ON June 7th the travelers left Beaver, still journeying southward. Left Beaver about five o'clock a.m. for Paragoonah. Air very cold. Met lot of Indians at the Antelope Spring. Passed through Paragoonah and went to Parowan. Brother Marsden is no more. Had to carry grain from Paragoonah for the trip. The following day, June 8th, was Sunday, and the two salesmen attended both Sunday School and meeting in Parowan. Went to Sunday School and meeting. I spoke in both places. Jim called from the congregation after refusing. Spent the afternoon and evening at the hotel. Had a number of callers. On Monday, June 9th, the trip was made from Parowan to Cedar, a distance of twenty miles. Left Parowan at five twenty for Cedar. Roads terribly rough. Weather hot and dusty. Had a joke sprung on me about triweekly mail. Went to the telegraph office in the evening. Had a pleasant time at hotel. Sold three bills of goods. The journey from Cedar to Harmony ranch was undertaken next day, June 10th. Left Cedar for Kanara. Sold a bill there. Went to Harmony and got the go by. Left at dusk to go up Harmony Canyon. We had a hard time of it; tried to hire a team but failed. One horse gave out but the other one kept going. Got to the ranch of the bishop at ten o'clock and as dark as could be. Had to wake the folks up; they gave us some supper and made us a bed on the floor. The salesmen were up and on their way bright and early next morning. On June 12th they reached Panaca, the end of their outgoing journey. Left Terry's at daylight for Panaca with a hired team, mine in the stable resting. Drove to Sheep Springs and took lunch. The road is hill and hollow, all the way through groves of cedar trees. Jim is thoroughly disgusted. Says he will never come to Panaca again. Flies are bad. Very warm. Visited the plunge bath. Sold a bill of goods. Pleased to see Charles Ronnow. Left team at Terry's. Wrote to Lucy. Next day the return journey began. June 13. Left Panaca before daylight. Breakfasted at Sheep Springs. Dined at Terry's. Team in good shape. Camped on the Mountain Meadows. No hay; had to cut lucerne. June 14. Left the Meadows at four thirty. Crossed the Santa Clara River, water rushing. Camped for noon in Diamond valley. Visited the volcano; hard looking place. Drove over the worst piece of rocky and sandy road on the trip. The sun seems to scorch the feet. It is simply terrible. Arrived at St. George in the afternoon. Quarterly conference was being held in St. George, and the two salesmen attended the meetings. Went to conference twice; had wine for sacrament first time in my life. Water not good here. Wrote to Mother, Lucy, and D. F. Had a feast of cherries. Girls here very good looking. Retired early. There is a touch of humor here. The girls of St. George were very good looking, but George Albert retired early. He had his Lucy back home. The next day the journey northward was continued. June 17. Left St. George at daylight, or at five o'clock. Went to Washington. Sold one bill. Started for Leeds and met Brother Judd on the way. Sold him a nice bill on the desert. Sold Leeds Co-op. Got stung with a hornet. Went to Toquerville but got on the wrong road. Sold Toquerville Co-op. Had a feast of raspberries. June 18. Left Toquerville about nine o'clock for Kanara. The road was very rough. Was quite ill when I got to Kanara; had to rest for about two hours and felt better. On the way to Cedar saw two coyotes. Shot at one but missed him. Spent the evening at the office in Cedar. From Cedar the salesmen crossed over the mountain to Panguitch, a journey that occupied two days' time. They left Panguitch for Marysvale at noon on the 23rd. Left Panguitch at 12:45 p.m. for the north. Drove slowly until daylight. Got breakfast at Circleville. Had brake repaired; broke it on our way over. Got stuck in the mud at Marysvale and broke the wagon tongue trying to get out. Had to put four horses on. Drove to a house for supper completely worn out. On June 25th the travelers reached Richfield where George Albert sold a bill of goods. Two days later they arrived at Manti. June 28. Left Manti after selling a bill. Sold Ephraim Co-op. Sold Spring City Co-op. Went to Mt. Pleasant and camped on the street. Went to Nephi. Got there at one a.m. Sunday morning. The last entry made during the journey was written at Nephi the following day, June 29th. Slept until one o'clock. Went to meeting. Called on Uncle Jacob Bigler. Had some strawberries at J. B.'s. The diary ends abruptly at this point. There is no further word as to when the two' salesmen left Nephi, or how long it took them to reach home. One thing we do know, however, and that is that George Albert was anxious to be with his beloved Lucy; and Jim, who had been homesick all along, did not let any grass grow under the horses' feet on this last leg of the journey of the salesmen to join their families in Salt Lake City. |
GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
About the time of his marriage SALT LAKE CITY ABOUT THE TIME GEORGE ALBERT SMITH WAS SALESMAN FOR Z.C.M.I.
(Note the unpaved streets and trees along Main Street.) LUCY EMILY WOODRUFF SMITH
At about eighteen years of age |
Nibley, Preston. "President George Albert Smith's First Mission for the Church." Improvement Era. April 1947. pg. 206-208, 245.
President George Albert Smith’s First Mission for the Church By PRESTON NIBLEY IN the fall of 1891, when President George Albert Smith was twenty- one years of age, he was called by the First Presidency to undertake his first mission for the Church. This was not a two-year mission to the eastern or the southern states or to Europe or the isles of the sea. It was a short term or local mission, "to the stakes of Juab, Millard, Beaver, and Parowan, I to labor among the young people." At the time of this call George Albert, as he was familiarly known, was working for Zion's Cooperative Mercantile Institution as a salesman in the grocery department. He had, in. fact, just returned from a long journey by wagon, which had taken him as far south as Richfield in Sevier County, and had occupied nearly a month's time. He had called at the stores in the various small settlements and had taken orders for groceries, both on the outward and return trips. George Albert was a pleasant young man of happy temperament; naturally optimistic, friendly, alert, energetic; in fact, it appears that in the work of a salesman he had found an occupation for which he was particularly qualified. Then, as if out of the clear blue sky, came this letter from the First Presidency calling him on a mission. He did not give a second thought as to whether or not he should accept the call. Of course he would go; that was a foregone conclusion. There was just one regret and that was that he would have to leave his sweetheart, Lucy Emily Woodruff. He and Lucy were engaged, and they hoped to be married sometime during the coming summer. George Albert kept a diary while on his first mission, and from the pages of this little book the information for this article was gleaned. The diary opens with the following entry: Salt Lake City, Sept. 1st., '91. Was called by the Presidency to go on a mission to the stakes of Juab, Millard, Beaver and Parowan. Got a recommend from the bishop to go to the temple. Saw Lucy in the evening. The reader will no doubt remember that the Salt Lake Temple was not completed in 1891, and it was therefore necessary for George Albert to go to either the Logan Temple or the Manti Temple. He chose to go to Manti. The entry of September 2 follows: Salt Lake, September 2nd. Left for Manti on the D. & R. G., in company with W. B. Dougall, Jr., who was appointed to labor with me. Stopped at the Bench House. Called at Lowry's. William B. Dougall, Jr., was the handsome, refined, educated young son of William B. and Maria Young Dougall. His mother was the daughter of President Brigham Young. William was one year older than George Albert. The two had been close friends and companions at home and had known each other from childhood. They looked forward to the experiences of this mission together. On September 3, George Albert wrote: Went through the temple and enjoyed myself very much; I wish my friends would prepare themselves for the work to be done. The missionaries returned to Salt Lake City on the train the day after their visit to the temple, and in the evening George Albert took Lucy for a buggy ride. Then, Monday morning, September 7, he departed for his mission field. On the way to the depot he called to say good-bye to Lucy. He missed the train by twenty minutes. Went to the U. P. depot but found that the train and the time-table conflicted and I was twenty minutes late. Went on down to the D. & R. G. and took the train to Prove Left my valise at the depot and went to grandmother's. Saw Sarah. Went to the lake picnic with the folks. Got home tired and much disgusted with what I saw. The next morning he met Elder Dougall on the train bound for Nephi, and the two arrived in their field of labor, ninety miles from home, shortly before noon. Arrived in Nephi and were met by stake superintendent [of the Y. M. M. I. A.] D. K. Brown. Went home with him and had a nice dinner. We next called on Brother William Paxman and had a pleasant chat with him about our work. Called on a few friends who made us welcome to their homes. Thus was the first day in the mission field spent by the two young elders. William Paxman, referred to above, was the president of Juab Stake. That night the visitors stayed with Brother Brown, and the diary reveals the activities of the following day. Arose at eight o'clock feeling a little cheap at having taken the bed of our host, he having slept on the floor. After breakfast Brother Brown went and got a buggy and team and took us to Mona. We arrived at Brother Kay's and had a nice dinner. Ran to the train to mail our letters. We said good-bye to Brother Brown as we did not expect to see him again. Went to the home and studied up a little scripture. John W. Young and a Mr. Arnold came in at supper time. We held a meeting which was very poorly attended. Were invited to stay when we came back. Had a good night's rest. Was informed of the wedding preparations of LEW [Lucy Emily Woodruff] by WBD [William B. Dougall]. Next morning the visitors returned to Nephi. Mona, Sept. 10th, '91. Arose feeling very well. Had a good breakfast and started for Nephi, driven by a son of Brother Kay. Went to Brother Paxman's as instructed. Saw Brother Brown again. Went to the home and studied up a little scripture. Arrangements were made to take us to Levan. We had an excellent dinner at Bro. Paxman's prepared by Miss Alice Paxman. Brother Brown called for us to go to Levan about 2:15 p.m. Were caught in a rain storm. Arrived at Bishop Ogard's, the storm having ceased. We took a short walk and got back just in time to avoid a terrible thunderstorm. The hail that came down was as large as pigeon's eggs, and then a terrible rainstorm followed. Weather turned off quite cold. We are well treated and well wished by everybody. The following day a successful meeting was held with the good people of Levan. Levan, Sept. 11th, '91. Arose after a good night's rest feeling first-rate. Took a skate through the mud before breakfast. [This was his way of expressing the fact that he took a short walk in the rain-soaked town.] After eating went and saw the first counselor of the Y.M.M.I.A. of Levan. He offered us transportation to the home of the president, but we declined with thanks. We walked two miles out of town to see him, and I got in the mud in good shape, right over my shoe tops. We met the president and had a splendid chat and dinner. The water here looks like mud and tastes like vinegar. [This was fifty-six years ago. It is different now.] Held a meeting in the meetinghouse. The house was full and a good time was had. Brother Dougall leading for fifteen minutes and I followed for thirty-five minutes. The president of the Y.M.M.I.A. next spoke for a few moments. The feeling was very good. The missionaries returned to Nephi to spend the week end. Levan, Sept. 12th, '91. Arose after a good night's rest and cut some wood. Had the morning meal, after which I wrote two letters, one to Mother and the other to Martha. Brother Peterson called for us and took us to Nephi. We were received very pleasantly by Bro. Thomas Parks. Were just in time for dinner. I went with Wilb [nickname for his companion] to call on Mrs. Bryan, where we were entertained by the family and a Miss Neff who was invited in. Retired at ten o'clock. Expected a letter today but was disappointed. Am a little alarmed, but trust that all is well. Found the parlor transformed into a bedroom. The next day was Sunday, and the elders attended church. Nephi, Sept. 13th, '91. Arose at 6:30 and took a ride on Bro. Park's bicycle. Enjoyed the ride but broke the bicycle. Went to Sunday School and was called to address the school; only spoke a few words. Next was called to visit the primary and had a nice time with the little ones. Told them the story of the Savior's birth and life, and they told me who it was. After Sunday School I was surprised and much gratified by Brother Dougall telling me that he had thought to lead in our labors together, but that he felt to say to me that I was so much better qualified than he was that he desired to follow me in all of our labors. We had a good dinner and went to meeting. Brother Karl G. Maeser occupied the time. He felt the same as I do about the young. Was called to dismiss the meeting. Held a meeting in the evening. Brother Dougall spoke first for about twenty-five minutes, and I followed for thirty minutes. We both enjoyed the spirit very well. Started home with some of our acquaintances. Received invitations to eat with a number of people. Retired at 10:25. The letter that I looked for never came. But he was not discouraged. He was at the post office next morning and was rewarded for his long wait. Nephi, Sept. 14th, '91. Arose feeling well and took a little exercise. Went to the post office. Got LEW's letter. Feel sorry that she is so ill. Took dinner with James Bigler and family. Visited the new academy. Wrote Lucy nine pages. Read most of the afternoon. Spent the evening at Langley Bailey's. Wish I could talk to Lucy for a few moments. Retired at 10 o'clock. On Thursday, September 17, the missionaries continued their journey southward. We left Nephi at 9:30 in company with Brother Hawkins. Got to Brother Peterson's at Levan for dinner. Left at 12:30 for Scipio. Saw John Acomb on the train as it passed. Got to Scipio at five o'clock. Roads very dusty. Stopped at Sister Yates' and was kindly treated. Met the bishop for the first time. Brother Thompson had sent to Juab for us but missed us. Held a meeting in the evening but did not feel well. Meeting not very well attended. Only a one night's stop was made at Scipio. Brother Thompson took the elders on to Holden. Arose and cut some wood. After breakfast I studied a little while, also called on Brother Martin. After dinner Brother William Thompson called on us and took us to Holden. He had a pair of young colts, and they made some very awkward moves. We arrived all safe and went to the home of Brother Stephenson, the president of the Y.M.M.I.A. in Holden. We held a meeting in the new meetinghouse. It is a fine place, splendidly finished, and good seats; as clean as it can be. The meeting was poorly attended. Retired at 10 o'clock. The journey was now continued to Fillmore. Arose and cut some wood. After breakfast left for Fillmore, behind the same pair of cayuses; they tried to get in the wagon with their hind feet. We arrived at Fillmore all O.K. Saw George Hansen and had a pleasant chat. Saw Albert Davis and Porter Callister. Expected a letter from Lucy but did not get one, so I patiently wait. Got a letter from father. Stopped at Sister Robinson's. Had a good meeting in the evening. Wore George Hansen's coat. The next day, September 20, was Sunday, and the elders attended Sunday School in Fillmore. Arose at eight o'clock. Went to Sunday School and spoke to the children. Saw Joseph Lovell. Took dinner with George Hansen and had a fine time. Bade Brother William Thompson good-bye and started with George Hansen for Beaver. We held meeting in Meadow at two o'clock and had a fine house; also meeting in Kanosh at 7:30 which was well attended. We passed the Hell Hole, where one of the wives of Kanosh killed another of his wives and put her body in the hole. It is supposed that the hole is an old copper mine that was worked by the Lamanites or Spaniards. We saw the grave of old Walker, the robber Indian chief, on the side of the hill. We saw the grave also of old Mike. He was photographed the day before he died, and the Indians thought that Will Calder was the cause of his death, as he was the photographer. We stopped at the residence of Brother J. J. Rapley, but slept at the bishop's. No letter from Lucy. After leaving Kanosh the missionaries continued their journey southward to Beaver. Arose at 6:30 and went to Brother Rapley's; found George Hansen all ready. While eating breakfast it started to rain, but we hitched up and started in an uncovered wagon. We had umbrellas and rubber coats, so we were all right. The rain came down quite hard for a little way but stopped before long. We got to Cove at 11:40, all O.K.; the wind quite cold. Left Cove at 2 o'clock and got to Beaver at 5:30. We got a streak of telling personal adventures, some of which were quite ludicrous. The Fish Creek camp was dis cussed and the pranks told of again. We arrived at Brother Maeser's and were well received. Mr. Clayton took us through the Court House, which, by the way, is very fine; the cost was $13,000. The clock in the tower is a fine one made by the Howard Watch and Clock Company. The weight of the clock is one thousand two hundred and fifty pounds, and it is a hard job for one man to wind it up. After supper we went to the tabernacle. The attendance was fair, and the spirit was very good. We received a hearty vote of thanks for our remarks. After stopping two nights in Beaver the elders journeyed to the next town, Minersville. Brother Gentry came along with a load, but he made a place for us to sit on, and we went with him to Minersville; broke a spring on the way. Got to Brother Baker's and found the folks away. We went to Bishop Walker's and were kindly received. Had a good supper of bread and milk. My watch stopped for one hour and then went on all right. Retired at 9:15. Thursday, September 24, was spent in Minersville. Arose at 7:15 and cut some wood; the weather clear. Ate a hearty breakfast. Took a walk; saw Mina Dotson and was invited to call. Had a good day's reading. Studied my lessons. Wrote to Spencer Wallace and Lucy. Would like to see Lucy for a few minutes; hope that she is well. Held a meeting in the evening in a home that was not finished, and it was quite cold. Wonder if the young people will ever get awakened. Wilb has put on his overcoat. I am a little tougher. I haven't put mine on yet. I haven't got mine here. The missionaries journeyed the next day to "Pancake or Greenville." Arose at 7 o'clock and was surprised to see it raining. The people seemed anxious for us for we had to go to Pancake or Greenville. But we didn't worry. We just took it easy until they came for us, and by that time it had stopped raining. Arriving in Greenville, the elders were taken to a home where they had a good dinner, but "the flies were awful. They tried to get into everything." Afterwards the missionaries went to a modest home where they were to stay overnight. A meeting was held at Greenville in the evening which the elders attended. We went to meeting on a hayrack, in company with two ladies and two gentlemen, and had a fine ride, though the mud was hub deep. We had a good meeting and a very good hand shaking after. We went back on the hayrack and slept in the little room. The fleas got the best of the bargain. The next afternoon the elders journeyed back to Beaver. Greenville, Sept. 26th, '91. Arose early and took a skate through the mud. Waited until after dinner for a team to take us to Beaver. Had a pleasant ride to Beaver. Am bitten terribly with fleas all over. On one place on the calf of my leg, three inches square, I have fifteen bites. I have been bitten over eighty times on my legs. He went straight to the post office on his arrival in Beaver. I received five very welcome letters from Lucy. Had a nice sponge bath at Brother Maeser's. Stopped at Arthur Gentry's. Two pleasant days, Sunday and Monday, September 27 and 28, were spent in Beaver. Sunday, Sept. 27th, '91. Arose at 8 o'clock, feeling fine. My lips are swelling with cold sores. After breakfast we went to Sunday School. Went to afternoon meeting and I occupied thirty-five minutes. After dinner called on Brother Burt. The Y.M.M.I.A., meeting in the evening was well attended. I spoke 25 minutes. The choir was fine. Retired at ten o'clock. And the next day: Arose at 8 o'clock. After breakfast helped Miss Rawlins wash the dishes. Got a package from mother. Wrote to her. Wrote to Lucy. Had a fine dinner at Sister Gentry's. Went to the ward organization of the Y.M.M.I.A., and gave a little instruction. Had a pleasant chat afterwards at the house. On Tuesday, September 29, the missionaries moved on to Paragoonah. Beaver, Sept. 29th, '91. Arose at 6:45 and took a walk. Had brains and sweet bread for breakfast. Made arrangements for my washing while gone. An invitation; from Milford is sent to us to come and lecture. Got the history of Barlow Ferguson. He taught school in Minersville in 1883. Was prosecuting attorney from 1885 to< 1887 in Beaver. I feel a little uneasy about things at home. After dinner I studied until the stage came. When it came we found that it was only a buckboard, and with only one seat. The three of us occupied the seat for thirty-two miles, and I got very tired. Had a chat with the driver. His name was O'Donnel. I got a letter from* Mother just as we were leaving Beaver. We got to Paragoonah at 7:30 p.m., and were met by James Ollerton, the superintendent's first counselor. I went to the post office and told them to stop my Parowan mail here. A little later I went and got a letter from Lucy. I read it by the light of the fire. The last day of the month of September was spent by the missionaries in Paragoonah. Paragoonah, Sept. 30th, '91. Arose at 7 o'clock after a good night's rest on a straw bed. The wind just whistled all night. I chopped some wood. Met Stephen Barton, the bishop's counselor, and a few others. Had a chicken dinner, and such a chicken! Helped Thomas Jones haul and stack up two loads of grain. Wrote to Mother. Went to the organization meeting and had a fine time. Snowing. (To be continued) |
LUCY EMILY WOODRUFF [SMITH]
WILLIAM B. [WILBY] DOUGALL, JR.
PRESIDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH AT THE
AGE OF EIGHTEEN |
Nibley, Preston. "President George Albert Smith's First Mission for the Church." Improvement Era. June 1947. pg. 358-359.
President George Albert Smith’s First Mission for the Church By Preston Nibley II The beginning of October 1891, found the two missionaries, George Albert Smith and William B. Dougall, Jr., at Paragoonah, in Iron County, Utah. The -weather was cold, and there was a light fall of snow on the ground which presaged an early winter. October I, 1891, was Sunday, and the two elders attended fast meeting. The following is from the diary, written that day: Arose at eight forty-five feeling first rate. Snow had fallen in the night. The morning clear. Went to fast meeting. Spoke to the few young men who had been asked to come. . . . Expect to go to Parowan in a few minutes. Cloudy and looks like storm. Studied most all day. Went to Parowan in an open wagon, the weather bitter cold. Stood up most of the way. Arrived at Brother Ollertson's home just at dark. Was kindly received. The night was cold, and in the morning there was a heavy frost on the ground. The diary continues: Last night was very cold; a heavy frost on the ground this morning. Arose after a good night's rest. Took a walk and saw Aunt Mary and family. They are nearly all sick. Aunt Mary has got a baby boy. The folks here at Brother Ollertson's have got two little children like Clare and Sib. Helped Brother Ollertson to make a grain bin. Broke my watch chain. Got a letter from Louis Wells and a telegram from Father. Studied most all day. Called at Brother Adams to hear Wilb play the piano. "Aunt Mary" that George Albert writes about was his father's sister. She was born at Parowan in 1852, shortly after her distinguished father, George A. Smith, led a colony to southern Utah to open up that vast area for settlement. As a young girl she was married to Peter A. Wimmer. She became the mother of eight children. George Albert mentions the fact that his companion "Wilb" went to the home of Brother Adams to play the piano. I have learned from the brother and sisters of Elder Dougall that he was a very accomplished pianist and at one time thought of following music as a career. But now he was a missionary and was enjoying that experience. The diary continues: Parowan, October 3, 1891. Arose at eight o'clock. The weather quite cold. The sky bright and clear. . . . Read one hundred and seventy-five pages. Called with Wilb at the telegraph office, also at Sister West's and Aunt Mary's. My eyes feel a little weak. Wilb and myself are both well. Had a good time chopping wood. Would like to be at home as usual. October 4, 1891, was Sunday, and the elders attended the meetings at Parowan. Arose at eight o'clock. . . . Went to the Sunday School as usual. Spoke to the school. Invited to speak in the afternoon. Went to meeting and spoke thirty-five minutes. A meeting was appointed for the evening. We called at the home of Sister West. Maggie not at home. . . . Left just at dark for meeting; got lost and got to meeting just on time. Had a fine meeting; a good attendance. Spoke forty-three minutes. . . . The diary continues: Parowan, October 5, 1891. Arose at eight o'clock. . . . Took some clothes to Aunt Mary's. Went to the telegraph office and telegraphed to Mother and got an answer. . . . Went with Brother Dougall in a cart to fill an appointment at Paragoonah. We had a fine time. The house was full. I lectured on the divinity of the Bible. The brethren returned to Parowan late at night. The next entry is dated there, October 6. Arose at seven thirty and took a little exercise. . . . We took our lists of names and started out; I found three out of ten but will see the rest. . . . Wilb feels all right. We ate dinner with the West family and a good one it was too. Held a meeting in the evening and talked thirty-five minutes. Wrote to Don and George Hansen. Parowan, October 7, 1891. Arose at seven fifteen. ... I stood on the ground where Brother Ed Dalton was shot by Thompson. Wrote to Lew Peck. . . . We were tendered a sociable by the Young Ladies' Association of Parowan. We met quite a crowd of young folks. Brother Ollerton makes it as pleasant as he possibly can. Retired at one o'clock. Parowan, October 8, 1891. Arose at nine o'clock, feeling pretty well. Bid the folks good-bye. Left for Summit with the funniest outfit. The off horse was a little brown mare, about as big as an Indian pony. The other horse was a sorrel and as lazy as they make them. He was a little larger than the mare. The harness was at one time leather, but it is patched with rope now, and looks like hard times. The wagon is a hard looking affair and the bed is twisted so that it looks like it is tipping off. We cut quite a grotesque figure, poking along with an umbrella over us—one horse willing to pull the load and the other horse willing that she should. We found that Bishop Dalley was away, but we met his father who asked us to come and take dinner with him. We did so and found that it was a birthday of the bishop's wife. . . , Held a meeting in the evening which was well attended. Brother Heybourne came to meet us. We all stayed at Joseph Dalley's. Wrote to Mother and Brother Bourne. Summit, October 9. Arose at eight fifteen. . . . We started with Brother Charles Heybourne for Cedar, behind a pair of cayuses, one of them wild. Arrived at Cedar at twelve ten. . . . We went to the telegraph office but no word was there for us. Wrote to Lucy and Louis. Called on the bishop and counselors of the Y.M.M.I.A. Saw Sister Mary Ann Lunt and Brother George Wood. Is Lucy sick? Cedar City, October 10, 1891. Arose early and was pleased to find a letter from Lucy on the table. Had breakfast and started to take a walk. ... I had seventy-five names to call on, which I did before four o'clock. We had dinner at five o'clock. Wrote to E. Tanner, L. M. Smith and L.E.W. [Lucy Emily Woodruff.] Had a fine meeting in the evening. One hundred and six present. Cedar City, October 11, 1891. Went to Sunday School. Talked to the Primary and after the school went to meeting and listened to Brother McAllister of St. George. . . . Met some young folks at Brother Webster's. Had a good meeting. Spoke thirty minutes. Cedar City, October 12, 1891. Arose and went to the post office. Got a letter from Lucy. Read my letter as soon as I got it and got my hands quite cold. Was more than pleased to learn that Lucy is well again. Took a long walk and got some specimens of flint. Was introduced to Sister Williams at the home of Brother Urie, where some books were kept to which I desired access. Wrote to Joseph West, and I don't think he will be able to read it. Had dinner with Brother Daniel Pendleton and it was splendid. Spent the evening at the home of Thomas Taylor, Wilb playing the piano, etc., had a pleasant time. Received a box of grapes from John Batty. No charges, . . . Cedar City, October 14, 1891. Arose at seven o'clock. Drank some lye water. [This no doubt refers to the river water at Cedar. ] Started for Kanarra at eleven forty-five arriving at two thirty. We went all over town but nobody invited us in. We were accompanied by Brother Charles Heybourne. At last a man asked us to put our team up which we gladly accepted. Took a walk to the mouth of the canyon. The water was splendid. The best means for a natural reservoir is here afforded that I ever saw. Large cliffs of solid rock open into a little valley, the distance between the opening being about fifteen feet. I felt free here in the canyon and offered up a prayer in my heart to my Heavenly Father for his kindness to his people in every way. A walk back to town where the horses were watered and the wild one of the two kicked Brother Heybourne on the hip. We seem to be the means of breaking wild horses in this country. We sat around on the fence and store's steps but no one invited us in. Finally the bishop came home and as he passed gave us an invitation to go home with him. We did not accept but found that a meeting had been called for seven thirty. We then went to Brother Roundy's where our horses were and went in the house. . . . Went to meeting. Their meetinghouse burned last February so they met in a private house. A few people came, about thirty. We organized the association, and Brother Heybourne spoke about fifteen minutes, Wilb thirty, and I talked ten minutes. After meeting, Brother Griffin asked me to go home with him which I did and took Wilb with me, Brother H. going with the bishop. The Church bell here is a cow bell. After remaining over night in Kanarra, the missionaries journeyed back to Cedar. Kanarra, October 15, 1891. Arose at eight thirty and found a plate of nice grapes on the table waiting for us. I ate of them quite heartily. . . . We met Brother Beebee, bishop of Virgin. . . . We started for Cedar. A man stopped us to ask a question; we tried to start but the horses concluded to stop. We sat there laughing when all at once they started to run, rear, and kick, but we got to Cedar all right. Washed in lye water. Wrote L.E.W. and Frank in answer to letters received. . . . We were the guests at a pleasant party gotten up in our behalf. Had a peculiar experience in Tucker. Everybody treated me well. Was asked to play the harmonica but refused. Spoke a few words of appreciation. Arrived home tired out. Telegraphed to Mother. The brethren now received a call from Brother Maeser, the son of Karl G. Maeser, to return to Minersville. Cedar City, October 16, 1891. Arose at eight o'clock feeling pretty well. Got a postal from R. Maeser. Packed my grip for Minersville. Bid some of our friends good-bye. Started for Minersville in very pleasant company with a good team. We were stopped by Brother George Wood as we were leaving and I was given a specimen of iron ore. . . . Singing and funny anecdotes were the order of the day. . . . We turned out of the road on the dug-way to let Brother Wood's folks pass and as it was quite steep we nearly tipped over. The horses were wild and had to be watched all the time. We got to our destination just at dark. Brother Walker welcomed us. . . . Minersville, October 17, 1891. Arose at seven thirty. . . . Took a walk up town. Bid our friends good-bye as they started for Cedar. Called on Brother Dotson. Saw Brother J. R. Rawlins. He is next to the oldest living member of the Church. Called at Sister Baker's and got a drink of good well water. Notified a few people of meeting. Most of the young men are away from home. . . . Minersville, October 18, 1891. Arose at eight o'clock after trying to keep my partner covered up for five hours. . . . Bid Brother Maeser good-bye; took a walk; went to Sunday School. Spoke to the Sunday School a few moments. Would like to see Lucy for a few moments or longer. Expect a letter at Beaver. People seem a little offish someway. Bishop's little boy took a tumble in a tank of water today and was taken out feet first. He is only three years old. The tank is six feet deep and full of water. . . . Was invited to spend the evening at Mrs. Marshall's. Had a fine meeting at two o'clock, the Methodist minister being present. The next entry reveals that the missionaries journeyed to the town which George Albert, in his humorous way, designated as Pancake. They hitched a ride "on a load of wheat." Minersville, October 19, 1891. Arose at seven thirty. Had a light breakfast. Left on a load of wheat for Pancake, Brother Walker being teamster. Stopped after a tedious ride of four hours at our destination, being directed to Sister Kelly's home. We left our grips and started out to find the president. Had dinner with him, salt rising bread. I feel rocky. Gave notice of a lecture in the meetinghouse. Weather fine. This is the town of towns. The town proper is on the north side of Beaver river. About twenty families living there. Log houses of one and two rooms abound here, but in the town some brick houses are seen. Sagebrush and greasewood as high as the head are found in all the side streets. Had a meeting and gave a lecture in the schoolhouse. (To be continued) |
WILBY DOUGALL
At the time of his marriage November 18, 1896. He was 27 years of age. HARRIET RICHARDS DOUGALL
Wife of Wilby Dougall |
Nibley, Preston. "President George Albert Smith's First Mission for the Church." Improvement Era. August 1947. pg. 511-512.
President George Albert Smith’s First Mission for the Church By Preston Nibley III — Conclusion November found Elders George Albert Smith and William B. Dougall, Jr., pursuing their missionary work in Holden, Millard County. They were now on their return journey and hoped to finish their labors before the beginning of the winter. The opening entry was written at Holden. Holden, November 1, '91. Went to Sunday School. Spoke a few minutes. A good spirit is manifested here and the meetinghouse is the best in the country. . . . Attended afternoon meeting. Spoke about 30 minutes— a good spirit prevailed. Went to the conjoint meeting of the Mutual in the evening. Received a visit from four young ladies and spent a few minutes in listening to music, vocal and instrumental. The following day the elders journeyed on to Deseret. Holden, November 2, '91. Arose and cut some wood. . . . Left for Deseret at 9:45 after filling our pockets with popcorn and apples. Brother J. J. Stephenson took a nice covered spring wagon and a good team to deliver us to our destination. We arrived all right and stopped at Brother Kelley's who had been chosen president of the Y.M.M.I.A. the night before. Got there at 2:30. While we were coming over, I was amused to hear Wilb ask Brother Stephenson if the rabbits dug up their grain after it was sown. After getting dinner we started to look at the town. We climbed to the top of the scaffolding of the new meetinghouse (and by the way it will be a fine building when it is finished), to see the town. A glorious sight met our gaze. The valley stretches away on the north to Eureka, and on the south to Milford. The sun was just setting —casting its golden rays through the clouds that were resting on the mountaintops. Everything looked lovely—farms in every direction, as far as the eye could see. Fat cattle and horses grazing contentedly in the broad fields. The houses, all the way from 14 to 1M miles apart, scattered all over. Oak, Holden, Fillmore, Meadow, and Kanosh could all be located. But the grandest of all sights was Mt. Nebo in Juab County. A rift in the clouds let the sun's rays fall on the upper half of the mountain, covering it with golden glory, as if giving it a good-night's kiss. Out in the south, Mt. Baldy, just east of Beaver, was plainly visible. After feasting on the lovely sight we went downtown. That was a breathtaking description, and it reveals the poetic power of the President. The journal continues: The sidewalks are about 5 rods wide. No trees worth mentioning. . . . After supper, meeting was next in order. There was quite a liberal turnout. The choir sang. We Are the True Born Sons of Zion"; eight girls and two boys constituted the choir. We had a good meeting. . . . Bishop Moody of Deseret is only 24 years old. The following day the elders moved on to Hinckley. Brother Stephenson took us to Hinckley and then bid us good-bye. I saw a calf with three ears. We stayed with Samuel Carter. We took a table and went out of doors to do some writing. We soon had company — six pigs, two boys, and some chickens, and three men about ten yards from us discussing water rights. A large flock of black birds flew over us making a deafening noise. Wilb sat down on a nail, and the consequence was that he turned seamster and sewed up a rent. . . . Held meeting in the schoolhouse. The house was full, and a good meeting was held. The next town visited was Oasis. I went to meeting and heard some good instructions from Brother Richards. ... In the afternoon meeting many were wiping tears from their eyes, including myself, at the testimonies borne. We didn't go to dinner at noon but ate in the meetinghouse. Brother Dougall was introduced around as Doodle. Some of the ladies were out in white dresses. After meeting we went to Brother Hawley's home and from there to meeting again. The dust was very bad. I spoke thirty minutes and felt well. After meeting the folks gave us a railroad ticket each to Leamington. They also asked us to amuse them for a little while as the train did not leave until one o'clock in the morning. I sang and recited a few comic things which they enjoyed, or seemed to enjoy. . . . At twelve o'clock we strung our valises on a stick and started Chinese fashion, or single fashion, for the depot. It was dark and dusty, but Brother Hawley was a good guide. We bid him good-bye and were soon on our way to Leamington. Wilb was soon asleep, but I only dozed until the whistle announced our approach to Leamington. I had to shake Wilb quite hard to wake him, but we were soon on the platform all alone with the dark and cold. It was 2:50 in the morning, and no place to go. I remembered, however, a man named Chris Overson, who lived about a mile away, so we started for his place, leaving our grips on the platform. After falling over stumps and into ditches, we finally got there, but he had a dog that had to be coaxed before we could get in the house. We finally reached the door where we rattled and banged to our hearts content. Finally we heard a man's voice saying, "Whose there?" I replied, telling him my name, which he recognized, as it was Mr. O. himself. He welcomed us and gave us a room and we were soon in bed dreaming the happy hours away as we got thawed out. A letter awaited George Albert at Leamington. Leamington, November 5, '91. Arose at nine o'clock feeling refreshed. Mr. Overson told me that a letter awaited me at the post office. I quickly reached there and was pleased to find the envelope marked 29 North West Temple. I read it but was very sorry that the sender was so ill. I do wish that she would get well and never have to suffer any more. I sent our things to Oak Creek by Brother Nielsen. I called on Bishop N. C. Christensen and left my grips. I then went to fast meeting and had a good time. ... I saw the famous Mclntyre's barn, the largest in the western country. It was full of hay, holding 1,000 tons. It is 296 feet long and two stories high, roofed with tin. I saw a fine lot of Galloway cattle. Met Brother R. Pay, who wanted to be remembered to Aunt Bathsheba. Feel well, but a little worried. Spent a pleasant afternoon at Brother Lovell's. Miss Lovell was very kind indeed. I felt quite at home. Held meeting in the evening and enjoyed myself. After meeting, I had bread and milk with plenty of cream. Wilb stayed at Oversons. Spent the evening in pleasant conversation. . . . Oak Creek was visited on November 6. Leamington, November 6, '91. ... Brother Amiel Johnson sent a horse and cart for me to go to Oak Creek. The folks gave me their photographs before I left. I bid them good-bye and started for Wilb. After meeting Wilb we started for Oak. The road was very dusty and rough. Met Brother F. D. Richards and party. Met Simeon Walker who told us to go to his place and stop, but we declined to do so. We stayed with Brother George Dutson and family. Wilb lost his coat or gossamer out of the cart, but it was found and returned to him. . . . We had a good meeting in the evening. Met Brother Finlinson. The church bell here is a bass drum. It was presented to Brother Dutson with some other curiosities that were ancient. The missionaries stopped only one day in Oak Creek and then moved on to Scipio. Oak Creek, November 7, '91. ... Left in a Racine wagon in company with George Dutson. We had a good team and made good time. The wind was very cold. Had dinner with Brother and Sister Yates who had just returned home. Saw William Thompson who said he would see us safe in Levan on Monday. Miss Walsh who is staying with Sister Yates is quite a pretty girl. Scipio, November 8, '91. ... Bid Brother Dutson good-bye, giving him a razor to remember me by. Went to Sunday School and spoke. Also spoke at the afternoon meeting. Called with Wilb at the telegraph office. Lectured in the evening on the divinity of the Bible. Scipio, November 9, '91. Arose at 7:15. Cold as blazes; started for Juab; got there O.K. at 12 o'clock; traveled with Brother William Thompson and a Sister White of Sanford, Colorado. Walked from Juab, 4 miles, to Brother E. W. Peterson's who is president of the Mutual. Saw a coyote. Drove to town and stayed with Brother Andrew Hendrickson. Weather cloudy. Lectured in the evening and had a good house full. From Levan the missionaries continued their journey to Nephi. Accompanied Sister Christiansen to Nephi. Was invited to stay at Brother Bailey's; accepted the invitation. Went to the First Ward Y.M.M.I.A., and lectured on the Bible. . . . Nephi, November 11, '91. . . . Visited the Juab Stake Academy. The people quarrel with one another to see who takes care of us. After supper at Brother Paxman's I got a funny streak and the folks nearly died laughing at me. Sister Paxman nearly fainted, and I had to stop. Attended a good meeting of the Y.M.M.I.A. in the Second Ward. I helped administer to a baby. Nephi, November 12, '91. ... I went to Bailey's and studied on my lecture. Gave the lecture and received a vote of thanks. Was taken to Mayor Hague's by a few yo'ung folks, and found more there when we arrived. Stayed at Bigler's. Nephi, November 13, '91. . . . Read William Bryan's letter to Mrs. Fannie Thatcher. It was a masterpiece of inspiration. . . . Said good-bye to the folks and started for the train. Brother Paxman was at the train with Brother Bailey to see us off. We were invited to come to Nephi any time and stay at their homes. Left for Mona feeling well. Had a talk with John Acomb [the conductor and a relative]. . . . Got to Mona and stayed with Brother Kay; was treated well. Had a good meeting but few attending. We had more, however, than a panorama that was held across the road. Some of the people were much delighted. Two hours before meeting I went with Brother Chapel and his little boy to the Nebo mine. Got a specimen of the ore. We got lost going up and had quite a time crossing gullies, but the horse was quite gentle. We met the men; went in the mine and heard three blasts go off. Got back in time for meeting. ... I spent the evening pleasantly chatting. Mona, November 14, '91. . . . Waited for the carriage that the Nephi people promised to send to take us to Eureka. It finally came; a pair of little cayuses but a comfortable carriage. I borrowed some quilts and made myself quite comfortable. We drove to Goshen. We stayed at Bishop Price's. Mamie is on the way home. Brother Henroid was our driver. We left Goshen at 1 o'clock and the climb uphill was all right, but when we got to the dugway going downhill the teamster was glad to let me drive, remarking, "I am afraid to tackle it." I took the lines and we went downhill on the fly. Just as we got to Homansville it just came down. The railroad grade is progressing nicely. The road is lined with tramps. We stayed at Brother Peter Loutensocks. According to instructions from L.E.W., I had my beard shaved off. The night was very cold. Held meeting in the evening. Just as meeting let out the moon appeared over the hill and it was lovely. Everything covered with snow; seemed to be studded with diamonds from the moonlight. Eureka is a regular fire trap, built on the sides of the canyon. Nearly all the houses are frame. The road, or street, is the bottom of the canyon. This street is lined with stores on both sides for about half a mile. . . . After a long walk all over town I returned feeling almost worn out. Saw the Beck Hoisting machinery. . . . Eureka, November 15, '91. . . . The night had been quite cold. Brother Walter Arthur called for us to go to the mine, but when we got there the man in charge was not present and I was glad of it for it was Sunday and I did not want to go. We went and saw the machinery for hoisting in the Eureka Hill mine. The cages go like everything. Went to Sunday School and had the pleasure of teaching a class of young ladies. I also addressed the school. Went to the afternoon meeting and spoke for a few moments. Took a long walk to the Blue Rock mine and found some pretty specimens. . . . Wilb, Brother Arthur, and myself went to the evening meeting and I gave a lecture on the Bible and Book of Mormon. The audience was about half Gentiles, but we never held a more orderly meeting and when we finished, all seemed to feel pleased. Saw an eclipse of the moon. Eureka, November 16, '91. . . . Called at a Chinese store and got some things for the children. Called at the assay office and got some specimens from Mr. Symons. Brother Walter Arthur gave me some fine specimens of a lime formation. Brother Loutensock gave me money to buy my ticket. Met Frank Hyde on the train. Saw the Mammoth mine. Enjoyed my ride through the desert, talking to Sister Gillespie. Saw Camp Floyd or Fairfield, also Cedar Fort. The snow-capped mountains look very pretty. The diary ends abruptly here, with the missionaries on their way home. We wish it could have been continued a few days or a few weeks longer, but we thank the President for this intimate glimpse into his thoughts and activities, nearly fifty-six years ago, when he went on his first mission with his companion William B. Dougall, Jr., to labor among the young people in southern Utah. (The End) |
J. A. W. "Many Happy Returns to President George Albert Smith." Improvement Era. April 1948. pg. 224.
Many Happy Returns to President George Albert Smith George Albert Smith, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, celebrates his birthday anniversary on April 4th. Congratulations and loving greetings go out to him from all the people of the Church and from a multitude of friends of many faiths and lands. There has always radiated from him a spirit of love for God and for all men, the love which is the foundation principle of the gospel, upon which the happiness of the world is built. This radiant devotion to the higher service of all mankind has endeared him to all who have met him or known him. Peace has followed him wherever he has gone; thorny paths have been easy to tread through his love. May he have many happy returns of this day, in full health and strength. Men are called to the prophetic office of President of the Church through inspiration from God. The call does not come by chance, or merely by attaining seniority in the councils of the Church. There must be fitness in the man, to be placed in the foremost office in God's latter-day Church. The burdens of the office are many and great. Let us assist by obedience to the divine laws of the kingdom of God. And, may we daily pray for our Leader on earth. Then we shall be blessed together.—J. A. W. |
GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
|
Bennett, Archibald F. "Born of Goodly Parents." Improvement Era. April 1950. pg. 268-269.
Born of Goodly Parents By Archibald F. Bennett SECRETARY, GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY OF THE CHURCH “. . . the glory of children are their fathers"—Proverbs, 17:6. One chosen to stand at the head of the Church of Jesus Christ in these latter days must assuredly have been one of the "noble and great" spirits in the premortal life, ordained to a special ministry. For such a faithful spirit the Father would undoubtedly provide a special lineage to give him birth. To acquaint ourselves with the names and characters and life stories of the men and women who gave to President Smith his physical inheritance is to become convinced that this was the case. A study of his ancestry as recorded on 102 pedigree charts containing names of 920 of his forefathers—the result of research by a number of genealogists— reveals interesting facts as to the caliber of his fathers and mothers of the past. "Thou art of Ephraim and entitled to all the blessings promised to his children. The Lord hath in store for thee a mighty work to perform for thy kindred and friends." These are sentences from his patriarchal blessing, given him at eleven years of age. The line of his fathers, his patriarchal line, when complete, will undoubtedly trace back directly to Ephraim, son of Joseph in Egypt. The Book of Mormon makes it clear that the Prophet and his father, Joseph Smith, Sr., were direct descendants of Joseph of old. President Smith's great-grandfather, Patriarch John Smith, was a brother to Joseph Smith, Sr., hence of the very same line. The father of these two brothers, Asael* Smith, was a soldier in the Revolution and a son of another patriot soldier, Captain Samuel Smith. Of Asael, the Prophet wrote in his journal: My grandfather, Asael Smith[1], long ago predicted that there would be a prophet raised up in his family, and my grand- father was fully satisfied that it was fulfilled in me. My grandfather Asael died in East Stockholm, St. Lawrence county, New York, after having received the Book of Mormon, . . . and he declared that I was the very Prophet that he had long known would come in his family. (Documentary History of the Church, 11:443.) Counting Asael as a virtual convert, there have been five generations of Church members in direct descent—John Smith, Presiding Patriarch to the Church and the first president of the Salt Lake Stake; George Albert Smith, Apostle and member of the First Presidency; John Henry Smith, Apostle and member of the First Presidency; and George Albert Smith, Apostle and now President of the Church. Robert Smith, first American ancestor on this patriarchal line, came in 1638, as a boy apprentice of twelve, and stands today at the head of a very numerous posterity. It is now possible to print, for the first time, his date and place of christening. He was baptized in the parish church of Kirton, Lincolnshire, England, 30 April 1626, the son of another Robert Smith. This earlier Robert was christened there 4 March 1595. His father in turn was Edward, christened at Kirton, 30 September, 1571. Research continues on this family, aided now by microfilm copies of parish registers. Eleven of President Smith's forefathers crossed the plains to Utah: his own father, four grandparents, six great-grandparents. He was well represented by revolutionary sires in that fight for freedom. Upwards of two hundred of his forebears crossed the ocean as immigrants to the land of promise. Among them were five Mayflower passengers—John Alden, Priscilla Mullins, her parents William and Alice Mullins, and Richard Warren. When the poet, Henry W. Longfellow, wrote the charming story of his own fifth great-grandparents, John Alden and Priscilla, he was preserving their name and fame for their eighth great-grandson, President Smith, whose pioneer great-grandfather, Ezra Chase, was fifth cousin to the poet. Sarah Farr, mother of President Smith, was descended through her father, Lorin Farr, and her grandfather, Winslow Farr, from staunch Governor Roger Conant of Massachusetts Bay Colony. Lorin Farr's mother, Olive Hovey Freeman, miraculously healed of an incurable malady under the administration of Orson Pratt, was a seventh cousin to Oliver Cowdery. Their common line of ancestry traces back across seven pedigree charts for twenty-two generations to one Saier de Quincy, Earl of Winchester, who died 3 November 1219, a crusader on his way to Jerusalem. He was one of the twenty-five barons made sureties to the Magna Carta to see that King John kept his pledge to his people, and one of the seventeen of these sureties who left descendants. Nor does the pedigree end there. It continues on to earls and dukes, and kings of England, Scotland, France, Italy, Sweden, and elsewhere; even back to the mighty Charlemagne, and thence as far as pedigrees can be traced with certainty. President Smith shares his lineage with many other Church leaders. He is related to President Heber C. Kimball, for both are descended from the Kimball family. He is also a Pratt by blood—Clarissa Lyman, his great-grandmother, wife of John, Smith, is offspring of Lt. William Pratt, emigrant ancestor of Parley P. and Orson Pratt, being their fifth cousin. His father's mother, Sarah Ann Libby, was eighth cousin to the Pratt brothers on the Marbury line, one of considerable antiquity, their common progenitor being William Marbury. The latter was father of a daughter Catherine (ancestress of President Smith) and a son, Reverend Francis Marbury, whose daughter Anne married William Hutchinson, and became the famous Anne Hutchinson who was imprisoned, excommunicated, and banished for expression of her religious beliefs. Later, a widow in exile, she and almost her entire family were cruelly murdered by Indians. Only one daughter, Susanna, escaped the massacre, to become progenitor of Orson and Parley P. Pratt. Through William Ward our President is related in cousinship with Brigham Young, Willard Richards, Franklin D. Richards, Erastus Snow, George F. Richards, Stephen L Richards, and Joseph F. Merrill. Through Zaccheus Curtis he is seventh cousin to the pioneer, Ezra Taft Benson. Joseph Loomis, colonist to America, is a common forefather to the Prophet's mother, to President Lorenzo Snow, and to President George Albert Smith. If family trees can be judged by their fruits, and it is a true principle, President Smith comes of goodly stock. His lineage leads back to those who stood in the forefront in every contest for right and freedom through the centuries. Plutarch said, "It is indeed a desirable thing to be well descended, but the glory belongs to our ancestors." President Smith has always taught a high appreciation of our forefathers, and that we can best honor them, not in an empty pride of ancestry, but by drawing from their lives inspiration to devoted service and righteous living. He is grateful for the blessings of his birthright, and his life has been worthy of his noble heritage. [1] Sometimes spelled Asahel |
PRESIDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
Pedigree charts for twenty-two generations go back to one Saier de Quincy, Earl of Winchester, a crusader on his way to Jerusalem.
JOHN HENRY SMITH SARAH FARR SMITH
ROBERT Smith, first American ancestor on this patriarchal line, came in 1638 as a boy apprentice of twelve, and stands today at the head of a very numerous posterity.
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Nibley, Preston. "Sharing the Gospel with Others." Improvement Era. April 1950. pg. 270-271, 311-312.
Sharing the Gospel with Others By Preston Nibley PRESIDENT George Albert Smith is a natural missionary. From his youth he has had an ardent desire to share the teachings of the gospel with his fellow men, to make known to "the sons and daughters of God," all of whom he considers to be his brothers and sisters, the truths that were revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith. On several occasions I have had the privilege of traveling on the train with President Smith. Each time I observed that as soon as the journey was well underway, he would take a few gospel tracts from his bag, put them into his pocket, and then move about among the passengers. In his friendly, agreeable manner he would soon make the acquaintance of a fellow traveler, and in a short time I would hear him relating the story of the founding of the Church by the Prophet Joseph Smith or telling of the exodus of the Saints from Nauvoo and their trials and difficulties in crossing the plains to Utah or explaining some of the gospel principles to his new-found friend. Con versation after conversation would follow with one passenger after another until the journey w ended. In my entire acquaintance with President Smith, which has extended more than forty years, I have learned that wherever he is, he is first and foremost a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. President Smith's first mission was undertaken in the fall of 1891 when he was twenty-one years of age. He was called by President Wilford Woodruff to labor among the young people in the stakes of Juab, Millard, Beaver, and Parowan in the interest of the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Associations. He enjoyed this work. He and his companion, William B. Dougall, Jr., held meetings in the various towns, organized Mutual Improvement Associations, and encouraged the young people to live in accordance with the principles of their religion. After laboring strenuously for a period of four months, the two elders were released to return to their homes. The following year, 1892, President Smith was called on a mission to the Southern States. Before leaving Salt Lake City he was married, on May 25, to his childhood sweetheart, Lucy Emily Woodruff. He departed one month later for Chattanooga, Tennessee, and on his arrival was assigned to the Middle Tennessee district. Four months later he was called to the mission office and made secretary of the Southern States Mission. His wife now joined him, and together they served as missionaries until June 1894, when they were released to return home. It was on this mission that he developed his gift for public speaking, in which he no doubt became interested because his distinguished father, John Henry Smith, was well known throughout the western country for his excellent oratory. Nine years after President Smith's return from the Southern States Mission, during which time he served as superintendent of the Seventeenth Ward Sunday School and as superintendent of the Y.M.M.I.A. of Salt Lake Stake, he was selected to fill a vacancy in the Quorum of the Twelve and was sustained in this important position by the vast congregation present at the October conference in 1903. In the spring of 1919, shortly after World War I, President Smith was requested by the First Presidency to go to England and take charge of the European Mission of the Church. With his wife and two of their children he departed in June and arrived at Liverpool in the latter part of the same month. England, at that time, was recovering from the devastation of the war, and as food was scarce, it was difficult for the American elders to obtain permission to enter the country. President Smith went to work on this problem with his characteristic energy, and after eleven months of almost continuous labor, during which time he called on many government officials, he was able to record in his journal, May 31, 1920, "Today I received word that our missionaries would be allowed to come in." In the meantime he had visited the branches of the Church in Ireland, Scotland, France, and Switzerland. In February 1920, President Smith delivered a very enlightening address on the subject of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints before the members of the Rotary Club of Glasgow, Scotland. In the summer and fall of the same year he made a tour of Norway, Denmark, Sweden, and Germany, and held meetings with Saints and investigators. As missionaries began to arrive in England, the work was again firmly established in that land. At the end of two years' service in Europe, President Smith was released in June 1921 and returned to his home in Salt Lake City. In a farewell message to the Latter-day Saints of the British Isles, published in the Millennial Star under date of June 30, 1921, he expressed his true feelings regarding the necessity of missionary work. We must not forget, Latter-day Saints, that we have been made partakers of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and the responsibility is on us to share our blessings with our fellow creatures. We have been warned and should continue to warn our neighbors. The Lord has spoken in our day and organized his Church. He has conferred divine authority on men, and his all-powerful arm is making bare to prepare the way for his second coming. Knowing this, we must not weary in well doing. Time is passing rapidly; our opportunity will soon be gone. If we are successful in bringing some of the children of our Heavenly Father into fellowship with him, the hours we spend and the trials we encounter in doing so will be pleasant memories of service to mankind. This is the spirit that has animated President Smith from his youth until the present time. Perhaps the most interesting of all the missionary travels performed by President Smith during his strenuous and busy life was his tour of the missions of the South Pacific in 1938. In January of that year he sailed for Honolulu, and there he met his traveling companion, Elder Rufus K. Hardy. On February 7 they sailed together for Australia. On their arrival at Sidney they met the President of the mission, Dr. Thomas D. Rees, and with him toured the southern continent. Melbourne, Tasmania, Adelaide, Brisbane, and Perth were visited, and meetings were held with Saints, missionaries, and friends. After spending a month in Australia, the brethren sailed to New Zealand, landing at the mission headquarters in Auckland. Here, among the Maori people, they found a large group of Latter-day Saints. A three-day conference was held, with over three thousand members in attendance. Other places visited during the tour were Wellington and Palmerton. After completing a visit to New Zealand, President Smith and a local elder named Alexander Wishart made a tour of the Tongan Islands. Elder Hardy was ill and remained in New Zealand; however, he recovered in time to join President Smith and spend a month with him in a tour of the Samoan Islands. Shortly afterwards, the two missionaries sailed for home and arrived at Los Angeles on July 11. Three days later they were with their families in Salt Lake City. President Smith had been absent six months and had traveled 27,000 miles. In reporting his mission at the October conference in 1938, President Smith made the following statement: Our missionary work is wonderful. We found your sons and your daughters in the various islands of the South Seas, and we are proud of "them, as you must be. . . . The work of the Lord goes forward in the South Pacific. The Polynesian people are all the children of our Heavenly Father. It is your privilege and mine to share with them the gospel of our Lord and to carry the message of life and salvation to them, not only for their benefit but also to earn our own exaltation. We will attain our exaltation in the celestial kingdom only on the condition that we share with our Father's other children the blessings of the gospel of our Lord and observe the commandments that will enrich our lives here and hereafter. |
President Smith and Elder Rufus K. Hardy in Samoa in 1938
George Albert Smith and Emily Woodruff Smith while on a mission in the Southern States
Making the acquaintance of a fellow traveler, he would soon be relating the story of the founding of the Church, the exodus of the Saints from Nauvoo, and their trails and difficulties in crossing the plains to Utah. . . .
President Smith with his family, Sister Smith, George Albert, Jr., and Edith, when he was president of the European Mission in 1920, Angus J. Cannon, president of the Swiss-German Mission at left.
The President addressing a gathering of Mexican Saints
MT. EGMONT IN NEW ZEALAND
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Green, Doyle L, et al. "A Period of Progress." Improvement Era. April 1950. pg. 272-273.
A Period of Progress By Doyle L. Green, Managing Editor and Albert L. Zobell Jr., Research Editor Throughout the Church on May 21, 1 945, as the oldest Apostle in point of service, George Albert Smith, was being sustained as the eighth President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, along with his tried and true counselors, President J. Reuben Clark, Jr., and President David O. McKay, members of the Church were looking forward to a new day of progress. The war t was drawing to a close. One hundred thousand L. D. S. service men and women would soon be home to add their strength to their family circles, communities, and Church. Many of them had expressed a desire to go on missions or to provide the means for a younger brother or sister to go. (No one has ever calculated the good that they did for the Church as unofficial ambassadors and missionaries in khaki and blue.) Yes, the war was drawing to a close, and missionaries would soon be going into many parts of the world from which they had i been recalled in the fall of 1939. But one of the greatest friend makers and missionaries that this Church has ever had became that day the new President, of the Church George Albert Smith. The number of full-time missionaries of the Church had dropped during the war to a few hundred. At the close of hostilities later that summer, worldwide missionary activity was begun again. In the past five years the number of fulltime missionaries has risen to an all-time high of over five thousand. New missions have been organized: Central Atlantic and Great Lakes in the United States; Finnish in Europe; Chinese and Japanese in Asia; Uruguay in South America. The missions of Europe have been reactivated, and literally hundreds of faithful European Saints upon whose shoulders rested the responsibility of Church mission leadership during their dark war years have availed themselves of the opportunity to gather to Zion and establish themselves. During 1944 (the year before President Smith was sustained ) some 397,110 tourists visited Temple Square. Then, with the end of the war, many people took their first vacation in years, and each succeeding year has brought more tourists. In 1949 the number of people who came to the Crossroads of the West to learn of the Church and its activities were 1,047,154. Many of these left Salt Lake City with their preconceived ideas about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints changed. In 1944 there had been fifty-one guides on the Square; today, during the most active season, there are approximately one hundred guides, each leaving his or her appointed work for several hours each week to devote time in this service to the Church. Missionary work at home has made strides also, in what someone has aptly called a "neighbor-to-neighbor" plan. Witness the following comparisons of stake missionary activity as reported to the office of the First Council of the Seventy: 1944 1949 Stake missions organized 147 174 Average monthly number of stake missionaries laboring 2947 3857 Hours spent by missionaries 362,730 563,975 Standard Works Distributed 13,942 14,069 Tracts Distributed 194,645 253,220 Baptisms 2327 2797 Inactive members becoming active 2678 3283 Carrying the gospel to the Lamanites has been one of the cherished activities of the Church since the time of the Prophet Joseph Smith. During President George Albert Smith's time the work among the American Indians has come to the fore, both in the full-time missions of the Church and among those tribes living near organized stakes of Zion. During the past several years many stakes have joined in creating interstake missions to the Indians. One of these missions is the Fort Hall Indian Mission in Idaho, and the other is the Uintah Basin Indian Mission. The Church has grown: from 1273 wards and branches in the stakes to 1492 wards and branches in the stakes; from 149 stakes when President Smith took office to 179 stakes [new stakes are scattered from the Pacific northwest (Spokane) to Florida; from the east coast of the United States (South Carolina ) to the west coast ( Palo Alto, Berkeley, San Joaquin, Glendale, East Long Beach, East Los Angeles]; and it was during President Smith's administration, on April 6, 1948, that announcement was made in general conference of a Church membership of over one million souls. President Smith's administration has been marked by a period of chapel construction. Approximately two hundred houses of worship have been completed since May 1945. Church operated hospitals, too, have been increased, and facilities added to existing units. New hospitals are located at Fillmore, Logan, Panguitch, Roosevelt, and Mt. Pleasant, Utah. A new building long planned for the Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City is under construction. After extensive remodeling which has now been completed, permitting the Presiding Bishop's office to move into the two top floors of the Church Administration building, all the offices of the General Authorities of the Church are at 47 East South Temple Street. On September 23, 1945, President Smith dedicated the newly completed Idaho Falls Temple, and soon the Saints were coming to receive ordinances in the temple for themselves and their kindred dead. But before work may be done in any of the temples, genealogical data must be obtained. The Genealogical Society of the Church had microfilmed records before the war, mostly in the United States, but the war had halted the activity. In June 1945, before microfilming was be- gun anew, the library had 3340 microfilm records cataloged. That total has grown until on February 21, 1950, 24,579 microfilm records had been cataloged. Approximately ten thousand records are in the library at Salt Lake City in various phases of being cataloged, and additional thousands (three thousand records in Norway alone) are awaiting transit to Salt Lake City. A total of twenty-two L.D.S. photographers are at work in the United States, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Holland, Switzerland, and the British Isles, copying records. Each photographer averages about five thousand pages of microfilming daily. In addition, many of our own priceless records at the Church historian's office are being recorded and preserved on microfilm. During President Smith's administration, a new presidency and general board have been appointed to head the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association; a new superintendency and general board have been named for the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association; and the superintendency of the Deseret Sunday School Union has been reorganized. The Church welfare program today is stronger than ever before. Late in 1945 President Smith himself headed a group which went to Washington, D. C, to arrange for the sending of Church welfare supplies to the needy Saints in Europe. One hundred thirty-three carloads of food, bedding, and clothing, in addition to thousands of individual eleven-pound packages have gone to Church members living in the far places of the world since these arrangements were made. At home, too, Church welfare has quietly assisted the aged and the infirm and has aided Church members living in disaster areas and those temporarily caught by unsettled industrial conditions. Yes, it has been a good period, a period of progress, during which President George Albert Smith has been presiding over the Church. |
Idaho Falls Temple dedicated September 23, 1945
Twenty-two L. D. S. photographers are at work in the United
States and Europe microfilming records. —Photograph by Robert J. Lanford
GLENDALE CHAPEL |
Josephson, Marba C. "Humor... a Way of Life." Improvement Era. April 1950. pg. 274, 310-311.
Humor... a Way of Life By Marba C. Josephson, Associate Managing Editor To President George Albert Smith, humor is a way of life. To him humor is not raucous, sidesplitting laughter; rather it is the refined, dignified laughter of one who has known sorrow and has thereby increased his capacity for genuine humor. It has been evidenced in his deep spirituality and also in his love of humanity. One who has the true sense of humor which President Smith possesses has genuine understanding and deep appreciation for life in its varying situations. Many people have a rapier-like wit which they too frequently use at the expense of others. President Smith's humor usually is aimed at himself. Tolerant and anxious about people, he has usually found something in his own life which he can use as an example of why others should also be tolerant and understanding. Living close to young people as he always has since his children and his grandchildren have lived in his home or nearby, he has made the most of his opportunity to keep close touch with the ways of youth. Even when his daughters have been somewhat concerned over an act of their children, President Smith has said, "Now, girls, don't be cross with them; they're only taking after their grandfather." And then he has often matched the current offense with one of his own when he was young. On one occasion the grandchildren were playing in the ravine which lies behind President Smith's home. They had erected a tentlike affair and had then proceeded to light candles which quite naturally set fire to the tent. Soon a furious blaze drew the parents to the scene. The mothers were quite beside themselves, wondering what kind of children they were rearing. As usual President Smith came to the defense of the young folk. "Now, girls," he said, "let me tell you what happened to me once." Then he related a story when, as a youngster, he had crawled into the hayloft of the barn with a bucket, a candle, and a match. He had decided to make a lantern. Just as he struck the match, a hand reached up over the hay and grasped the young George Albert firmly and dragged him down from the haymow, which had only recently been filled against the winter needs of the animals. The hired man was the one who had grasped him; he had seen the lad enter the barn and had decided to follow. "So you see," President Smith concluded to his daughters, "these children are just taking after their grandfather." Then he said ruefully, "Think how terrible it would have been if all that hay had caught fire." On another occasion one of the granddaughters had taken eggs from the refrigerator to mix with some earth in order to make a mudcake. The mother of the child not unnaturally was furious. President Smith heard his daughter scolding the child. Later, President Smith told his daughter about an experience he had when he was a lad. He had taken an egg from his grandmother's chicken coop in order to trade it for candy at the grocery store. The clerk handed him the candy that George Albert had selected. Then young George Albert reached the egg ever so carefully to the top of the candy case. Just as the egg made contact, it exploded, sending the other would-be buyers along with the proprietor to the nearest exit. "So, my dear," President Smith said, "you mustn't be too hard on the child. She's only taking after her grandfather." As a young man President Smith also was much sought after as an entertainer. In addition to his keen wit he excelled on the guitar and the banjo. Even in time of stress President Smith can always see the humorous side of the situation. A few years ago he had an infection which the doctor decided to treat with the new sulfa drug which had recently come on the market. No sooner had the sulfa been taken than President Smith reacted violently to it. The family hurriedly sent for the doctor. When he arrived, he said, "We have to expect this reaction at times. We have learned that one out of twelve can't tolerate sulfa." President Smith, ill as he was, looked up at the doctor with a twinkle in his eyes and said, "That's right; you see I'm one of the twelve." At the time he was a member of the Council of the Twelve Apostles. When he was desperately ill in California, an ambulance was called to remove him to the hospital. On the way to the hospital his secretary said, "How do you feel?" President Smith answered, "I am like the man who fell from the top of a tall building, and a man standing by the window called out asking how he was. 'Well, I'm all right so far,' he answered." During his public work, President Smith was often the target for caricaturists. He was a natural for barbs, since he was tall, thin, and wore glasses at a time when glasses were rather uncommon. Although his family felt somewhat hurt by these sketches, President Smith saw the humorous side of them and tried to comfort his family so that they wouldn't feel so bad about them. President Smith has always been solicitous of young folk everywhere. His many years as general superintendent of the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association have given him a vision and understanding of youth and its problems. Youth has kept him young, and youth in turn has benefited by his young views. At a fair or an exposition, President Smith is the first to see the new inventions, the apparatuses which will modify the future. He has never lost youthful perspective—which, after all, is the true definition of humor: that it looks to the future always, firmly cognizant of the past. President Smith's humor roots from all the experiences of life. His deep capacity for joy has been determined by his experiences of sorrow. His anecdotes and stories are of the kindly sort that bring relief from heartache or encourage those who most need encouragement. His humor warms the heart and makes all who experience it know that it opens a happy way of life. |
"George Albert Smith, Honorary Doctor of Humanities." Improvement Era. April 1950. pg. 277.
George Albert Smith, Honorary Doctor of Humanities High honor was accorded President George Albert Smith at the convocation celebrating the one hundredth anniversary of the founding of the University of Utah on February 28, when he received an honorary doctor of humanities degree. Kingsbury Hall was filled to overflowing with an audience, many of whom wore the colorful academic robes of some of the world's greatest academic centers. It was the President's privilege to offer the invocation for that group at the beginning of that meeting. Later in the program, Dean O. Meredith Wilson of the university college arose and said: Mr. President: May I present George Albert Smith, three times President of societies for developing scientific farming, sixteen years President of the Society for the Aid of the Sightless, Founder and President of the Utah Pioneer Trails and Landmarks Association, Director of the Oregon Trails Memorial Association, twenty years executive of the Boy Scouts of America and recipient of the silver beaver and silver buffalo awards, for a generation a leader in and now President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who has traveled over a million miles in the interest of peace. He has helped to build a living economy, devoted years to the handicapped, kept alive a devotion to the ideals and achievements of the pioneers, and invested his best efforts in the leadership of tomorrow. A prophet to the members of his Church, a counselor, and friend to all, being a servant of all men, he is, in truth, a man of God. For a lifetime of devoted service to the welfare of all his fellow men, I recommend that he be awarded the degree of Doctor of Humanities, honoris causa. President Smith then received the degree from President A. Ray Olpin of the University of Utah. President J. Reuben Clark, Jr., represented his Alma Mater, Columbia University, and as a delegate of the American Academy of Political and Social Science during the founders' day exercises. Dr. John A. Widtsoe of the Council of the Twelve and one of the three living former presidents of the University played an important part in the centennial proceedings. He took part in a symposium, entitled "One Hundred Years of Education in Utah," in which his particular subject was "The Early Years." |
President George Albert Smith receiving
the honorary degree of Doctor of Humanities from President A. Ray Olpin of the University of Utah. |
Hinckley, Bryant S. "Service Through Industry...George Albert Smith as a Businessman." Improvement Era. April 1950. pg. 282-283.
Service through Industry... George Albert Smith as a Businessman By Bryant S. Hinckley Making money has never held a major place in the mind of this distinguished leader.^ There were other and larger things that appealed more strongly to him, although he did not neglect the realities of life. No matter how lofty his purpose, he has always kept his feet on the ground. The order of preferences is clearly indicated in his life. From his childhood he has given his first allegiance to the Church. All else has been subservient to its interests. Years ago he wrote a creed which is a perfect index to his life and his character. If he had not written anything else, this classic should perpetuate his name. All his mature life he has done individual missionary work which was both far-reaching and effective. His unfailing kindness and his rare ability to reach the hearts of those who have wandered from the path have enabled him to render the most precious service that men ever render. He has the priceless gift of rekindling hope in the hearts of the hopeless, strengthening the faith of the wavering. Born in this great citizen is a love for the land that gave him birth. A love for its welfare stands next to his love for his Creator. His immediate ancestors and his forebears for generations have been liberty-loving Americans, fostering with patriotic zeal all its interests and purposes. As a young man he was active in the National Guard, serving as First Sergeant, Troop C, First Cavalry, for the full term of enlistment. George Albert Smith and his illustrious father, John Henry Smith, made a conspicuous contribution to the reclamation service of this country. His energy, his integrity, his affability, coupled with his brilliant and alert mind, would no doubt have taken him far in the business world had he chosen to follow that field. He was not destined to do that; however, he has a bright record as a man of business. At the age of thirteen he was employed in the Z.C.M.I. overall factory. Later he made packing boxes. It is interesting to note that he subsequently became a president of that institution, and in later years, while presiding over the European Mission, he represented the company on a tour through England, conducted by the British Drapers Chamber of Trades, in company with representatives from all over the United States and Canada. It was a far cry from the noise and dust of this factory to being guest of honor among important businessmen, during the tour, in an international convention held in the then metropolis of the world. On leaving the University of Utah, he became a member of a surveying party, working to straighten out the curves of the Denver-Rio Grande Railway east from Greenriver, Utah. It was while doing this work that his eyesight became impaired as a result of the heat and glare of the desert sun. This was an almost irreparable loss to him, and had it not been for his determination to succeed, it might have proved a tragic handicap. Notwithstanding this, he is a well-informed man. At twenty-one he was a traveling salesman for Z.C.M.I., representing the wholesale grocery department. On May 21, 1891, he started on a trip through Central and Southern Utah, going as far south as Panaca, Nevada, about four hundred miles from Salt Lake City. He and his companion traveled by team. Sixty years ago the roads over that territory were rough and dangerous, in fact, almost impassable in some places and at some seasons of the year. They visited all the stores and towns in that vast territory, going from Salt Lake City to Cedar City, from Cedar City to Panaca, from Panaca to St. George, and back through Kanab, Orderville, Panguitch, and up through Sevier and Sanpete counties. They were gone about forty days, and he kept a diary on this trip. There is just enough detail in it to make it highly entertaining. He sold "bills of goods" to almost every institution on the way. A few excerpts from his diary may prove interesting: "Provo, May 23, rose at 6:30, exercised with the dumbbells for thirty minutes and Indian clubs the same." (He occasionally gave demonstrations with the Indian clubs to the delight of those present. ) "May 28, drove from Scipio to Holden. The drive was quite a hard one, downhill with no brakes. Held a concert in the hotel, Maynes singing, Jim playing the flute, and I playing the guitar; bed hard; room small." "May 31, left Fillmore about nine o'clock for Meadow. In the evening quite a number of people were assembled in the parlor of Brother G's home. It was here James and I played. We must have made quite a favorable impression for we played until twelve o'clock." George Albert Smith was a great salesman. Salesmanship is a highly remunerative profession. It requires special talents, and he had them all. In 1898 he was appointed Receiver of Public Moneys and Disbursing Agent for Utah by President William McKinley and was reappointed by President Theodore Roosevelt, the first Latter-day Saint in this state to receive a federal appointment. He served in this office for nine years. The day his term expired, he put his hat on and walked out, leaving a brilliant and stainless record. He became prominently connected with several of the leading industrial and commercial institutions of the state: For many years he has been director and vice-president of the Utah Savings and Trust Company; he was a director and vice-president of the Utah- Idaho Sugar Company and is now its president; he was president of the Libby Investment Company; a director of Z.C.M.I., now its president; a director of Heber J. Grant and Company, now president; a director of the Mutual Creamery Company; and for many years he was a director of the Utah First National Bank, now president; president, the Salt Lake Theatre and the Decker Wholesale Jewelry Company. Wherever he has gone, he has cultivated tin: acquaintance and companionship of the leaders of the people. Whether it was the President of the United States or the Lord Mayor of London, he established a friendship with them, feeling that the great of the earth as well as the humble were entitled to hear the message of salvation. Punctuality is a cardinal principle with him. He is in all respects an example of it. Meetings which he conducts start on time and end on time, and the business is carried forward with dispatch. In 1945 he became trustee-in-trust for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This office clothes him with the financial responsibility of the Church, and this responsibility could not be en trusted to abler or more benevolent hands. His stewardship will be discharged with signal fidelity and with a sacred regard for the highest interests of the Church. He proceeds with an eye single to the glory of his Maker. |
Sixty years ago, George Albert Smith and a young companion were traveling salesmen for Z. C. M, I. in central and southern Utah, and southeastern Nevada.
Ever since George Albert Smith's young and formative years, his unbounded energy, his integrity, and affability have carried him steadily onward to his present-day position of the highest office in the Church.
President George Albert Smith and former governor of Utah, Herbert B. Maw, have a friendly chat with President Harry S. Truman of the United States in June 1945.
Wherever President Smith has gone, he has cultivated the acquaintance and companionship of the leaders of the people.
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Stewart, Robert Murray. "A Normal Day in the Home of George Albert Smith." Improvement Era. April 1950. pg. 286-287.
A Normal Day in the home of George Albert Smith By Robert Murray Stewart LIFE is unaffected and happy at President George Albert Smith's home. The household consists of President Smith, his daughter Emily, her husband (the author of this article), and his granddaughter, Martha, together with Louisa Grint, who looks after the physical needs of the family. In the house next door reside President Smith's other daughter, Edith, and her husband, George Elliott, with their children, Thomas and Nancy. Their love and interests bring them to the Smith home constantly to join in the happiness there and to make them an integral part of President Smith's household. President Smith's son, George Albert, Jr., professor at Harvard University, and his wife Ruth, with their three sons, George Albert III, Samuel, and Robert, live in Boston, Massachusetts. Whenever they come to the Smith home for a visit, there are great happenings of which President Smith becomes a part — overjoyed to have his grandchildren with him and to enter into the activity of his young folk. The house itself was built some years ago. While it may not have all the conveniences of more modern homes, President Smith has found joy in the continuity of his ownership. The ravine in the rear of his house has all the qualities of the canyon and has brought much joyous living to him, his family, and his friends. The home and garden, including the canyon, were enjoyed by the governors of the various states and their families at the governors' reception held there during their convention in Utah in July 1947. As in most families, the timing of the morning meal at the Smith residence is rather difficult, but it is arranged so that each member of the household has a turn to return thanks for the food and also to offer the family prayer, which follows breakfast. President Smith's morning at the office is followed by a lunch at home, whenever possible, and a short rest. Although President Smith's afternoon in the office is usually long—lasting until six-thirty or seven—his route home is a devious one, for he may go to the hospital to visit or to administer to the sick. If it is not a trip to the hospital, it may be that he will make a call upon a sick friend or a relative. He has frequently said that if people keep well, he will probably not call on them; but when they are in distress, he will do his best to visit and comfort them. Even though dinner is late—having been kept warm against the time of President Smith's eventual arrival—family prayers will be offered before the serving of the meal. President Smith's meals are simple and nourishing. In the summer he eats no meat, and even in the winter months he eats very little. Milk is his favorite beverage. After the dinner is finished, the time for relaxation arrives. A large base rocking chair, a gift to him from his beloved wife soon after their marriage, is the President's favorite chair. Naturally, it has had to be reupholstered several times. The chair stands in one corner of the living room near the fireplace, in which, in the wintertime, a cheerful log fire is kept burning. When President Smith is seated comfortably, Edith and some, if not all, of her family come to see him. Reminiscences and storytelling are then engaged in, to the delight of the grandchildren and the other members of the families. Jokes, recitations, and occasional songs are also enjoyed to bring relaxation and fun to the entire family. When the visiting is over, a member of the family reads to the President from a book, magazine, newspaper, or a manuscript. President Smith is always greatly interested in editorials and international matters that may in some direct or indirect manner affect the missionary work of the Church. After President Smith completes this part of the day's activities, he is ready for bed. But the process of getting to bed requires about an hour and a half of methodical procedure. President Smith first exercises on an exercising table in his bedroom. He then goes to the basement where he engages in calisthenics on an exercising machine for about fifteen minutes. President Smith has faithfully followed this nightly procedure for many, many years. After his exercises President Smith bathes and then retires, his wants having been diligently looked after by his daughters. The affection between President Smith and his family is dignified and emanates directly from the kindliness that has prevailed among them throughout their lives. The loving and sterling qualities that President Smith manifests in his home are the same that he extends to all people everywhere. |
President Smith, his son, George Albert, Jr., and grandson, George Albert III
President Smith and his two daughters, Emily, left, and Edith, right, in a reception line at a gathering at his home honoring the nation's governors in July 1947.
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Haycock, D. Arthur. "A Day with the President As Seen by his Secretary." Improvement Era. April 1950. pg. 288-289.
A Day with the President As seen by his Secretary Dr. Arthur Haycock[1] A busy day begins for President George Albert Smith about seven in the morning, a busy day filled with people. And, of course, President Smith loves people. A light breakfast starts his day, consisting generally of prunes, a dish of whole wheat, and a glass of milk. He knows the value of a healthy, nourishing diet. The early morning also includes a glance at a newspaper to keep abreast ' of local, national, and world events. On the way to the Church Administration Building, accompanied by his son-in-law, Robert Murray Stewart, someone nearly always gets an invitation along the way to ride with him—a student on the way to school or someone going to work. Thus, the day has a running start by nine o'clock, when President Smith customarily reaches his office. The morning is taken up with visitors, meetings, correspondence, and more visitors. Meetings with the Brethren associated with him in the presiding councils of the Church and of the various auxiliary organizations and institutions of the Church consume a great deal of President Smith's time. To all who call, he is a very gracious host. This is true whether the visitor is a mother who hoped he would have time to shake hands with her young son or a distinguished national or international official. The President never hesitates to tell his prominent visitors who do not know about the Church just what the gospel means —and they admire and respect him for it. People are impressed with his honesty and humility. One prominent New York banker, not a member of the Church, said, as he left the office after visiting with President Smith: "Why, he is just like the prophets we read about in the Bible!" A convert from the mission field, a class of seminary students, a group of Indians, or a young boy or girl may come to the office seeking an opportunity to shake hands with the President of the Church. Whenever possible, he takes a few minutes out of his busy day to greet them. With reverent pride he points to the pictures above his desk showing his father, John Henry Smith, and his two grandfathers, George A. Smith and Lorin Farr. Callers are always fascinated with the many souvenirs and keepsakes displayed in his office—a deer carved by a Scout, an airplane, a totem pole, a mountain sheep carved by an Indian, a covered wagon and pair of oxen made of wood and sent in from a reservation during the centennial year—and countless other items. He is particularly interested in the young people and their welfare. For the very young, there is always a storybook, a piece of candy, or a shiny new coin. On a recent trip to the Middle West, he was rushing to catch a train when a mother with four small youngsters stopped him so that her children might have the opportunity of shaking hands with him. Someone took a picture of the incident, and a copy was sent to President Smith with this notation: "I am sending you this picture because it is a graphic illustration of the man we believe you are. The reason we treasure it so is because, as busy as you were, in spite of the fact you were being hurried into your car and then to your waiting train, you still took time out to shake the hand of each child in this family." During the day, many of the Brethren counsel with him or report to him on the progress of some committee work. He is alert to what goes on and likes to keep in touch with all the affairs of the Church. Always his counsel and advice are just and wise—and tempered, ever, by his boundless store of love for his fellow men. But city, state, and national organizations require his attention, too. He is president, for example, of the Utah Pioneer Trails and Landmarks Association; a member of the Advisory Board of the National Council, Boy Scouts of America; and a National Trustee of the National Society, Sons of the American Revolution. Also, President Smith always has been solicitous of the welfare of those who are blind, deaf, or otherwise afflicted and is greatly interested in doing what he can to help these people and make their lives happier. One of his Sunday afternoons recently was taken up with the dedication of a chapel for the deaf in Salt Lake City, and I shall never forget the emotion I experienced as I stood on the stand and watched most of those in the congregation "singing," in sign language, "We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet," many of them with tears of gratitude streaming down their cheeks. President Smith is president of the Society for the Aid of the Sightless, and as an indication of the love which the blind have for him, one of the members of that group, a woman who has been blind from childhood, wrote in tribute to him the following lines: Although his tender loving face From us is shut apart. We see the gracious wisdom Of his understanding heart; We feel a peace within his soul And know a peace our own; We hear his silent prayer that tells We do not walk alone; His faith in us will give us strength As unseen paths we plod: Our souls uplifted by a man In partnership with God. To conserve his strength and to enable his body the better to keep up with his enthusiasm. President Smith rests an hour or two in the afternoon. I usually drive him home for his lunch and rest, and the short ride always permits a few moments relaxation during which I never tire of listening to the countless stories he tells about people and places. He recalls events that have occurred and changes that have taken place during his lifetime, particularly in the valley of his birth. The lawns, the flowers, and trees are a never-ending source of joy to him. When he returns to the office in the afternoon, there are more meetings and visitors. Sometimes the press of other matters makes it necessary for him to stay late in the evening to take care of the daily mail. He is very conscientious about his correspondence, and it disturbs him if he cannot get all of his work taken care of in any particular day. President Smith loves to spend his evenings with his family. Often at the dinner table he holds everyone spellbound with his stories. Later in the evening, on rare occasions, he may sing some of the songs that he learned as a young man and that he used to sing to his own accompaniment on the guitar or banjo. I have enjoyed a few such evenings, and their memory is priceless to me. If weather permits, he takes a walk around his yard before retiring and may call on one of his neighbors. He enjoys being out-of-doors, especially in warm weather, and I have been privileged to enjoy many such walks with him. During the day he may wander in his garden and call the birds by whistling. When he was a boy, he learned to whistle by using an acorn cup placed between his fingers, and he is able to produce a rousing whistle in this manner. Finally at night President Smith's body says, "enough for today" to his much younger spirit, and he goes to bed, thankful that he has been permitted to live another day in this beautiful world, and to spend it "sharing the gospel with others." [1] See Your Page and Ours, page 340 |
Someone along the way nearly always gets an invitation to ride with President Smith--a student on his way to school or someone going to work.
President David O. McKay, President George Albert Smith, and President J. Reuben Clark, Jr., of the First Presidency
Several Navajo Indian girl singers called upon President Smith during a recent M. I. A. conference and sang several of their native songs.
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Hammond, D. E., et al. "President George Albert Smith... Scouter." Improvement Era. April 1950. pg. 290-291.
President George Albert Smith.... Scouter By D. E. Hammond SCOUT EXECUTIVE, S. L. COUNCIL & FORMER MEMBER YMMIA GENERAL BOARD and Forace Green MEMBER YMMIA GENERAL BOARD To President Smith the Scout daily good turn has been of the utmost significance. He has read into this Scout law the admonition of the Savior, "And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all." (Mark 10:44.) Add to the spirit of the good turn the lifelong interest of President Smith in youth, and you have a partial answer to why he has gained international prominence as a Scouter, as well as an indication as to why Utah and the Church lead the world in the percentage of boys registered as Scouts and Explorers. At the age of twenty-one the President was called by the First Presidency on a local, short-term mission "to the stakes of Juab, Millard, Beaver, and Parowan, to labor among the young people." His special assignment was the Y.M.M.I.A. In 1902 he was made superintendent of the Y.M.M.I.A. in the Salt Lake Stake, which then comprised forty wards. When scouting came to America in 1910, President Smith was a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and advisor to the M.I.A. He followed closely the findings of the general board members who investigated the program. He also approved the recommendation made in 1912 that it be adopted, as well as the application for a national charter the following year. In 1919, when the Salt Lake Council was formed, President Smith was made a member of the executive board. Last year he was presented with a special thirty-year veteran badge for continuous service in that capacity. One of his major activities on the board has been to help with the development of the Tracy Boy Scout Wigwam in Mill Creek Canyon. One of the cabins at the camp bears his name because of the work he did in helping raise funds for improvements. When President Smith was made general superintendent of the Y.M.M.I.A. in 1921, scouting in the Church was placed directly under his guidance. President Smith would be the last man in the world to claim credit for the wonderful record made and for the good that has come to the youth of the Church through the program, for many other prominent men have engaged in this work. But since 1921 he has been the leader of the L. D. S. scouting movement. President Smith became the first Utahn to gain membership on the executive board of the National Council. He was appointed to this position in 1931. Since that time he has known personally most of the national Scouters. He has won their love and respect through his contributions to the program and by his personal charm. The extent to which the Y.M.M.I.A. and its superintendent contributed nationally to the scouting program is told graphically in a letter from James E. West, Chief Scout Executive of the Boy Scouts of America. It is dated September 10, 1934, and is addressed to Superintendent Smith: "We are very grateful for the permission extended in your very kind letter of August 8, 1934, to use your Church Program in Scouting, and especially that phase of it which has to do with the Program of the Vanguards, as a basis for our expanded program in the Senior Division to be developed in cooperation with the Protestant Churches, and as a part of their unified program for youth within the Church. "Dr. Wyland assures me that the Curriculum-Planning Committee of the Protestant Churches will have real appreciation for the practical working plan offered in the Vanguards. "We are therefore hopeful that you will see, after a few years, the fruits of your labors in a very much wider field developed by the Christian Churches generally." Two honors came to President Smith about this time that spotlighted his position in scouting. They were the presentation of the Silver Beaver and the Silver Buffalo. The Silver Beaver, the highest award that can be bestowed by a local council, was first given in 1932. President Smith was in the group winning one the first year from the Salt Lake Council. Two years later, in 1934, the National Council awarded President Smith the Silver Buffalo, highest decoration obtainable. At this time he was probably the only man in the United States to have both the Beaver and the Buffalo, and he is still one of a very few to receive both awards. The citation read at the presentation ceremonies in Buffalo, New York, puts into a few words some of the highlights of his accomplishments up to that time: "George Albert Smith: Business executive, religious leader, former President of the International Irrigation Congress and International Dry Farm Congress, Federal Receiver of Public Moneys and Special Disbursing Agent for the State of Utah. Member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and General Superintendent of the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association of that Church. Organizer and President of the Utah Pioneer Trails and Landmarks Association. Member of the National Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of America, Program Divisional Committee, Committee on Relationships, and of its Region Twelve Executive Committee, and identified with its local activities continually almost since its organization. He has been indefatigable in serving the cause of Scouting, and to his enthusiasm for its program must be largely traced the fact that Utah stands above all other states in the percentage of boys who are Scouts." The following year President Smith became advisor to the M.I.A. devoting most of his time to his duties as a member and later as president of the Quorum of the Twelve, and finally President of the Church. But he retained his position as the ranking active L.D.S. Scouter and increased his influence in the National Council. From October 1937 to June 1938 he headed "The Flying Squadron," a group of leading Scouters who traveled forty-six hundred miles and talked to six thousand stake and ward leaders in the interest of promoting the scouting program. He was honored at the Silver Jubilee of Scouting in the Church in 1938 and again at a special program held during June conference in 1948 when scouting was thirty-five years old in the M.I.A. He backed the Centennial Boy Scout Camp held in Salt Lake City during the Pioneer celebration in 1947. President Smith served for several years as chairman of the important program and resolutions committee of the National Council and has played a prominent part in many of the national annual meetings. Although President Smith has won more honors, reached higher places, and done an exceptional work in the development of the Boy Scout movement, he best exemplifies the spirit of the program in his everyday actions. On a camping trip if someone wanted a drink of water, if there was wood to be gathered, if there was food to be cooked, he was the first to respond. The horses were always tended before he thought of himself. If someone needed help, he was always there. The good turn to him means giving a man a ride for a block or a thousand miles, helping a dog in need, a lady down the steps, or the President of the United States on a special assignment. It means sharing the gospel with others, giving our youth the chance they should have to gain eternal salvation. It is the spirit of the gospel of Christ. |
President Smith in his Scout uniform, wearing the Silver Beaver and Silver Buffalo awards.
President George Albert Smith with two Explorers who represented Utah at a Region 12 meeting in Hawaii.
President Smith with young Jimmy McFarland, son of Mr. and Mrs. W. Grant McFarland, standing near "This is the Place" monument.
". . . to his enthusiasm for its program must be largely traced the fact that Utah stands above all other states in the percentage of boys who are Scouts."
(From citation read at the ceremonies in Buffalo, New York, when President Smith received the highest award in scouting, the Silver Buffalo) |
Giles, John D. "George Albert Smith...Friend of the Lamanites." Improvement Era. April 1950. pg. 292-293, 335.
George Albert Smith.... Friend of the Lamanites By John D. Giles BUSINESS MANAGER THE IMPROVEMENT ERA A favorite theme of President George Albert Smith is: "We are all brothers and sisters— the children of our Father in heaven." One of the groups emphasized frequently as being very close to Latter-day Saints is the Lamanites, mistakenly and unfortunately called American Indians. When George Albert Smith became President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1945, one of his first important actions was to set up a plan to assist the Lamanites. He went to Washington and not only called on the Utah congressional delegation and the commissioner of Indian affairs, but also on the President of the United States and other high officials. In the Council of the Twelve Apostles he set up a committee to pay special attention to Indian problems. The committee's assignment included regular and intensive efforts to give help in every possible way to our Lamanite brethren and sisters. A field co-ordinator was appointed to devote his entire time and attention to the Indians. The general boards of the Mutual Improvement Associations, Sunday School, Relief Society, and Primary, were requested to set up recreational and other special programs, where desirable, for Indian groups. Several other projects were instituted, all looking toward the betterment of the conditions and broadening the opportunities for self-help and development among the people who are now receiving more attention and more favorable consideration in the Church and in the nation than for many years past. These actions on the part of President Smith were not spontaneous; they were not the result of a sudden impulse; they were the product of years of association with a people who have fared so poorly over the years at the hands of their white neighbors. He has visited Indian reservations and Indian homes whenever the opportunity has been afforded. He has friends in many tribes in various parts of America. Visits to his office by Indians from nearby and faraway reservations are frequent, and more than once Indians have been guests in his home. In 1941 what is probably the highlight of President Smith's experience with his Lamanite friends occurred. With two companions President Smith spent the greater part of a week among the Hopi and Navajo groups of northern Arizona. It was a missionary experience filled with unusual events. He joined a group of missionaries from Snowflake Stake who had been assigned to work primarily among the Hopis and Navajos. His route led through the Indian villages at Indian Wells, Keams Canyon, Polacco, Walpi, Oraibi, Hoteville, Moencopi, and Tuba City. At each of the villages he met not only the chiefs and leading men but also requested the privilege of meeting the humble members of the tribes, frequently in their homes. When he found Indians who were sick or infirm from age, he blessed them. Their smiles of gratitude were more eloquent than the English words they were unable to speak could possibly have been. Another impressive experience with the Lamanites was at Fort Washakie, Wyoming, on the Wind River Reservation in 1946. Coming west along the Mormon Pioneer Trail from Nauvoo toward Salt Lake City with a group of friends, President Smith stopped at Lander, Wyoming, to secure suitable sleeping accommodations. The following morning he visited the reservation office and then the grave of old Chief Washakie, noted Shoshone leader whose statue stands in an honored position on the "This is the Place" Monument at the mouth of Emigration Canyon overlooking the valley of the Great Salt Lake. As President Smith, with tears in his eyes, stood at that grave in Wyoming and listened to an Indian interpreter relate stories concerning the great warrior, he silently paid tribute to another of his Lamanite friends. A few minutes later he stood at the grave of Sacajawea who, the Indians claim, mistakenly was called the "Bird Woman" of the Lewis and Clark expedition to the northwest in 1804. When he heard of futile efforts to have a suitable monument placed in commemoration of the great service she rendered to the nation, he repeated a remark made by the old scout as he approached the grave—"If Sacajawea had not been an Indian, a monument would have honored her long ago." President Smith pledged his cooperation, in an effort that has been under way for some time, to pay tribute to her in a proper manner. At Fort Washakie, President Smith talked with several members of the Church, including Charlie Washakie, son of the famous chief, and his wife Ellen. This led to President Smith's request that the Washakies be invited to participate in the exercises at the unveiling of the "This is the Place" Monument, July 24, 1947, which they did. On a visit to Fort Hall, in Idaho, President Smith demonstrated his understanding of Indian characteristics when Charlie Peterson, chief of the inter-tribal council of the Shoshone-Bannock Indians, declined to have his picture taken with the President. After considerable reluctance was shown by the chief, President Smith finally suggested the chief be given time to go to his wickiup to change his clothes. With this suggestion the chief's face brightened, and he and his wife soon reappeared, delighted to have their photographs taken. On a visit to the Goshutes at western Juab County, near Ibapah, Utah, the kind heart of this friend of the Lamanites was touched by the conditions under which this is group of "our Father's children" were compelled to live. The situation was called to the attention of proper authorities, and later reports indicate that some improvement was made. The Indians in the Uintah Basin, on the Shivwit's Reservation, Washington County, Utah, the Piutes in southern Utah, and Indian groups in many other places have all enjoyed visits from President Smith. At Taos, New Mexico, one of the oldest Indian villages in that area, President Smith and his party learned of the customs which have been followed in that village for several centuries. In visits to Indian villages long since abandoned, President Smith has indicated his extensive knowledge of Indian history. On his visit to Mexico in 1946, President Smith performed a remarkable service as he welcomed back into the Church a group of splendid people who had labored under a misunderstanding for some time whose hearts had been warmed, and they were turned back to the Church by President Arwell L. Pierce of the Mexican Mission, and others. His kind and friendly attitude won them over as friends, and impressive reunion services under his direction climaxed efforts of long standing to win back these sincere people. On this journey President Smith attended services in humble Church edifices as well as in larger buildings and met the people on common ground. He visited their homes and ministered to the sick. His visit there and the results will long be remembered. One of the most extended trips among the children of Father Lehi was taken by President Smith in 1938. He visited the Saints in Hawaii and practically all of the Pacific Islands where members of the Church are living. He made friends of all classes, including the royalty and has maintained contacts since his visit with many of his newly-made friends. Those who believe that the day of the Lamanites is at hand will be heartened with the attitude of our beloved Church leader and with the reports which are being received from all parts of the United States, from Canada, Mexico, and the islands of the sea. The prophecies regarding the Lamanites are being fulfilled, and undoubtedly the next few years will be full of interest and promise for Father Lehi's children. |
A bronze statue of Chief Washakie as executed by Mahonri M. Young for "This is the Place Monument."
Lamanite Saints from the Washakie Ward visiting the temple grounds.
President Smith bedecked in leis on leaving Honolulu in 1936.
President Smith at a native feast at the L. D. S. Mission Home in Tonga in 1938.
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Richards, LeGrand. "Our Tribute to President George Albert Smith." Improvement Era. April 1950. pg. 304.
Our Tribute to President George Albert Smith Every man is remembered, in one way or another, by someone. He is remembered either for his wickedness, his righteousness, or for his conduct on the unnumbered levels between these depths and heights in human behavior. Time may erase the memory of one's person, but eternity will perpetuate the impact of his life upon individuals and upon succeeding generations. It is in recognition of these facts that we and our associates in the office of the Presiding Bishopric take delight in paying tribute to our beloved President George Albert Smith on the eightieth anniversary of his birth. Centuries will pass into oblivion; we will pay but little heed to the fleeting millenniums of time; but while these pass and multiply themselves into eternities, the influence of the life of President George Albert Smith will go about lifting and blessing men's souls forever. The Lord never intended that the effects of love and of kindness should perish with the passing of their practitioner; their sphere of influence is unacquainted with time; they have ever been the bosom companions of eternity. Since love and kindness are coeternal with God, so must be the life whose days, months, and years have been dedicated to the living of these divine standards among the children of men. What then could ever destroy the influence of President Smith's life which has come to be the living symbol of these virtues — virtues which are as much a part of God and eternity as are breath and life? President Smith will live forever in hearts warmed by his unfeigned love and moved by his unmeasured kindness. Uncounted souls will rise higher because he lived among men. We thank our Heavenly Father for our prophet, seer, and revelator. We pray that the years may be gentle as they take their inevitable toll in strength and vitality. We pray that his sojourn may be prolonged until we learn more fully, through emulating his example, the generating power of love for one another and the congenial effects of kindness toward our fellow men. LeGrand Richards Joseph B. Wirthlin Thorpe B. Isaacson The Presiding Bishopric |
McKay, David O. "An Exemplar to All Men - A Birthday Greeting to President George Albert Smith." Relief Society Magazine. April 1950. pg. 220-221.
An Exemplar to All Men
A Birthday Greeting To President George Albert Smith
President David O. McKay of the First Presidency
AS members of the Church and thousands of other admiring friends express congratulations and good wishes to President George Albert Smith on his eightieth birthday, there will be awakened in their minds, as jewels in a diadem, the many virtues that contribute to his noble character. From these I will mention only two —Love and Trust—as I pay a brief tribute to him with whose close acquaintance and association I have been honored for over half a century. To virtues that contribute to success in life, these two are what the diamond and the pearl are to other precious gems.
Love for Fellow Men
When Jesus was asked to name the greatest of all commandments, he answered: 'Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."
This truth President Smith has exemplified throughout his life. As a true representative of his Lord he has gone about doing good—administering to the sick, comforting the bereaved, kindly admonishing the wayward, visiting the fatherless and the widows, pointing out the light of the gospel to those hitherto blind to its glories—winning gratitude from those who had thought themselves dealt with unjustly, and gaining merited favor from men in high places.
Truly, in deeds of love and kindly service, he stands out as one who loves his fellow men; consequently ''his name leads all the rest" as one who loves the Lord.
Keeping Unsullied an Honored Name
Every normal person born into this world brings with him a mighty responsibility—his ancestral lineage. If that lineage was noble when he received it, his responsibility is to keep it noble, and pass it on to the next generation unsullied. If the lineage possesses weakness, it is the responsibility of the inheritor to strengthen and pass to his descendants a higher and better standard. One of the most impressive of Paul’s appeals to Timothy was—"Keep the trust committed to thy care." Daniel Webster was once asked what was the greatest thought that had ever occupied his mind, and he answered: "The consciousness of duty—to pain us forever if it is violated, and to console us so far as God has given us grace to perform it." In keeping the trust committed to him by a noble ancestry, in holding high the standards of an inspired parentage. President Smith has set an example worthy of imitation by young men and young women not only in the Church, but also throughout the world.
Undoubtedly, one of the happiest experiences of his life came to him when in a dream or vision he met his departed grandfather. “I remember," he said when relating the experience, ''how happy I was to see him coming. I had been given his name, and had always been proud of it.
''When Grandfather came within a few feet of me, he stopped. His stopping was an invitation for me to stop. Then—and this I. would like the boys and girls and young people never to forget—he looked at me very earnestly and said: 'I would like to know what you have done with my name.'
"Everything I had ever done passed before me as though it were a flying picture on a screen—everything I had done. Quickly this vivid retrospect came down to the very time I was standing there. My whole life had passed before me. I smiled and looked at my grandfather and said: 'I have never done anything with your name of which you need be ashamed.'
"He stepped forward and took me in his arms, and as he did so, I became conscious again of my earthly surroundings. My pillow was as wet as though water had been poured on it—wet with tears of gratitude that I could answer unashamed.
"I have thought of this many times, and I want to tell you that I have been trying, more than ever since that time, to take care of that name. So I want to say to the boys and girls, "to the young men and women, to the youth of the Church and of all the world: Honor your fathers and your mothers. Honor the name that you bear, because some day you will have the privilege and the obligation of reporting to them (and to your Father in heaven) what you have done with their name."
Love of the Lord and of one's fellows expressed in thoughtful, kindly deeds, a trust kept inviolate by living a clean, upright life— these are godlike virtues contributing to a nobility of soul, and are outstanding traits of our beloved President's character.
Dear President: Eighty years true to self!—most of those years spent in service to your fellow men, and therefore in loving service of the Christ whose authorized servant you are—we extend to you affectionate greetings and congratulations! Joy and peace attend you on this your Natal Day, and God's choicest blessings be yours on each of many Happy Returns!
An Exemplar to All Men
A Birthday Greeting To President George Albert Smith
President David O. McKay of the First Presidency
AS members of the Church and thousands of other admiring friends express congratulations and good wishes to President George Albert Smith on his eightieth birthday, there will be awakened in their minds, as jewels in a diadem, the many virtues that contribute to his noble character. From these I will mention only two —Love and Trust—as I pay a brief tribute to him with whose close acquaintance and association I have been honored for over half a century. To virtues that contribute to success in life, these two are what the diamond and the pearl are to other precious gems.
Love for Fellow Men
When Jesus was asked to name the greatest of all commandments, he answered: 'Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."
This truth President Smith has exemplified throughout his life. As a true representative of his Lord he has gone about doing good—administering to the sick, comforting the bereaved, kindly admonishing the wayward, visiting the fatherless and the widows, pointing out the light of the gospel to those hitherto blind to its glories—winning gratitude from those who had thought themselves dealt with unjustly, and gaining merited favor from men in high places.
Truly, in deeds of love and kindly service, he stands out as one who loves his fellow men; consequently ''his name leads all the rest" as one who loves the Lord.
Keeping Unsullied an Honored Name
Every normal person born into this world brings with him a mighty responsibility—his ancestral lineage. If that lineage was noble when he received it, his responsibility is to keep it noble, and pass it on to the next generation unsullied. If the lineage possesses weakness, it is the responsibility of the inheritor to strengthen and pass to his descendants a higher and better standard. One of the most impressive of Paul’s appeals to Timothy was—"Keep the trust committed to thy care." Daniel Webster was once asked what was the greatest thought that had ever occupied his mind, and he answered: "The consciousness of duty—to pain us forever if it is violated, and to console us so far as God has given us grace to perform it." In keeping the trust committed to him by a noble ancestry, in holding high the standards of an inspired parentage. President Smith has set an example worthy of imitation by young men and young women not only in the Church, but also throughout the world.
Undoubtedly, one of the happiest experiences of his life came to him when in a dream or vision he met his departed grandfather. “I remember," he said when relating the experience, ''how happy I was to see him coming. I had been given his name, and had always been proud of it.
''When Grandfather came within a few feet of me, he stopped. His stopping was an invitation for me to stop. Then—and this I. would like the boys and girls and young people never to forget—he looked at me very earnestly and said: 'I would like to know what you have done with my name.'
"Everything I had ever done passed before me as though it were a flying picture on a screen—everything I had done. Quickly this vivid retrospect came down to the very time I was standing there. My whole life had passed before me. I smiled and looked at my grandfather and said: 'I have never done anything with your name of which you need be ashamed.'
"He stepped forward and took me in his arms, and as he did so, I became conscious again of my earthly surroundings. My pillow was as wet as though water had been poured on it—wet with tears of gratitude that I could answer unashamed.
"I have thought of this many times, and I want to tell you that I have been trying, more than ever since that time, to take care of that name. So I want to say to the boys and girls, "to the young men and women, to the youth of the Church and of all the world: Honor your fathers and your mothers. Honor the name that you bear, because some day you will have the privilege and the obligation of reporting to them (and to your Father in heaven) what you have done with their name."
Love of the Lord and of one's fellows expressed in thoughtful, kindly deeds, a trust kept inviolate by living a clean, upright life— these are godlike virtues contributing to a nobility of soul, and are outstanding traits of our beloved President's character.
Dear President: Eighty years true to self!—most of those years spent in service to your fellow men, and therefore in loving service of the Christ whose authorized servant you are—we extend to you affectionate greetings and congratulations! Joy and peace attend you on this your Natal Day, and God's choicest blessings be yours on each of many Happy Returns!
"Congratulations to President George Albert Smith on His Eighty-First Birthday." Relief Society Magazine. April 1951. pg. 220.
Congratulations to President George Albert Smith on His Eighty-First Birthday THIS year, on April 4th, President George Albert Smith reaches his eighty-first birthday. At this time members of the Church throughout the world and many other friends and associates of President Smith extend to him their greetings and best wishes. Our beloved President is remembered in the prayers of Relief Society women everywhere, and we rejoice that his life has been spared to give us comfort and inspiration and the spiritual leadership which guides us to the eternal principles of love and service. It is a great blessing that in this time when confusion and uncertainty have dimmed the forces of hope and high achievement in so much of the world and among so many people, that we have been given a Prophet whose personality and whose desires express love and tolerance and kindness— a breadth of sympathy and a voice of guidance like unto those qualities exemplified by the apostles and prophets of old. May we, as women of the Church, continue to join in the thoughts expressed in the familiar hymn. . . . "We ever pray for thee, our Prophet dear, that God will give to thee, comfort and cheer. . . ." |
PRESIDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
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J. A. W. "President George Albert Smith on His Eighty-First Birthday." Improvement Era. May 1951. pg. 317.
President George Albert Smith
"Keep the commandments of the Lord; then carry on." That was the simple, direct life message of President George Albert Smith. The multitudes who came under his influence and who stood sadly by his bier learned the conquering power in life of this ideal.
His superb devotion to Joseph Smith, the latter-day prophet, made alive all that he said, taught, and accomplished. The labors of the Prophet were to him a more complete revelation of man's relationship and duty to God. These teachings became the measuring stick for the inspired words of his own sermons and for his judgment of his fellow men.
Thus he became the patron of all students of the mission of Joseph Smith, or those who sought new proofs of the divinity of the latter-day cause. He was generous to such searchers. To all he was wont to say, "Go to it. If there is any more to find about the Prophet's life and labors, let it be found and published."
So, with such faith and -devotion to truth, he was enabled to build a life of far-flung service.
As he honored the Prophet, so he honored the faithful members of the Church who built upon Joseph's foundation, and who, toiling through cold and heat, courageously conquered the desert. For them he erected monuments from birthplaces and trails to Statuary Hall in the National Capitol.
Ever with human welfare in mind, he fostered and presided over agricultural and industrial congresses planned to make life in the desert more acceptable.
All this did not remove him from the active affairs of life. He was an active participant in banks and other industrial enterprises—from digging a new canal to thirsting land, to erecting for progress a skyscraper. The light and truth of his country thrilled him. He became an honored and influential member of the Sons of the American Revolution.
Whenever a movement for human good came, he was there to help, by personal participation or by encouragement.
His was not a single-track mind. Rather, it spread like a fan over human needs, but held together firmly by his faith in the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.
In the midst of all these labors he looked with loving eyes upon eager youth. To them he gave much of his strength. They were the men of tomorrow. This led him into scouting where he rose high, into the superintendency of the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association, and into other movements for the welfare of youth.
As he looked into the hearts of men (and he circled the earth), he saw the need of love among men. Therefore, in his preaching and labors he became the apostle of kindness and mutual human love. He taught the everlasting truth that men cannot approach the likeness of God except by the practice of love to their fellow men. Only by love can peace and joy be made to cover the earth.
At length, he was called to preside over the Church as prophet, seer, and revelator. Majestically in his simple words he called men to repentance and to the practice of the divine law of love.
He blessed the Church.
May we never forget his life's message.
We are grateful to have known George Albert Smith.
Thank the Lord for his life and service. —J. A. W.
President George Albert Smith
"Keep the commandments of the Lord; then carry on." That was the simple, direct life message of President George Albert Smith. The multitudes who came under his influence and who stood sadly by his bier learned the conquering power in life of this ideal.
His superb devotion to Joseph Smith, the latter-day prophet, made alive all that he said, taught, and accomplished. The labors of the Prophet were to him a more complete revelation of man's relationship and duty to God. These teachings became the measuring stick for the inspired words of his own sermons and for his judgment of his fellow men.
Thus he became the patron of all students of the mission of Joseph Smith, or those who sought new proofs of the divinity of the latter-day cause. He was generous to such searchers. To all he was wont to say, "Go to it. If there is any more to find about the Prophet's life and labors, let it be found and published."
So, with such faith and -devotion to truth, he was enabled to build a life of far-flung service.
As he honored the Prophet, so he honored the faithful members of the Church who built upon Joseph's foundation, and who, toiling through cold and heat, courageously conquered the desert. For them he erected monuments from birthplaces and trails to Statuary Hall in the National Capitol.
Ever with human welfare in mind, he fostered and presided over agricultural and industrial congresses planned to make life in the desert more acceptable.
All this did not remove him from the active affairs of life. He was an active participant in banks and other industrial enterprises—from digging a new canal to thirsting land, to erecting for progress a skyscraper. The light and truth of his country thrilled him. He became an honored and influential member of the Sons of the American Revolution.
Whenever a movement for human good came, he was there to help, by personal participation or by encouragement.
His was not a single-track mind. Rather, it spread like a fan over human needs, but held together firmly by his faith in the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.
In the midst of all these labors he looked with loving eyes upon eager youth. To them he gave much of his strength. They were the men of tomorrow. This led him into scouting where he rose high, into the superintendency of the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association, and into other movements for the welfare of youth.
As he looked into the hearts of men (and he circled the earth), he saw the need of love among men. Therefore, in his preaching and labors he became the apostle of kindness and mutual human love. He taught the everlasting truth that men cannot approach the likeness of God except by the practice of love to their fellow men. Only by love can peace and joy be made to cover the earth.
At length, he was called to preside over the Church as prophet, seer, and revelator. Majestically in his simple words he called men to repentance and to the practice of the divine law of love.
He blessed the Church.
May we never forget his life's message.
We are grateful to have known George Albert Smith.
Thank the Lord for his life and service. —J. A. W.
Giles, John D. "George Albert Smith - A Prophet Goes Home." Improvement Era. May 1951. pg. 320-323, 368-370.
George Albert Smith—A Prophet Goes Home... By John D. Giles BUSINESS MANAGER, THE IMPROVEMENT ERA "Remember faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, humility, diligence." (D. & C. 4:6.) A great man has gone to a great reward. President George Albert Smith, prophet, seer, and revelator, eighth president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, passed away peacefully on his eighty-first birthday Wednesday, April 4, 1951. Death came at his home in Salt Lake City. The man who had made friends for himself and his Church by the thousands in all walks of life has completed his mission and written the final chapter of one of the remarkable personal histories of the period in which he lived. The story of the life of President Smith has been one, largely, of a life dedicated to service to his fellow men. Rich and poor were shown his favors impartially. He was happiest when he was alleviating suffering, visiting the sick, assisting those in distress, and making others happy. A book he loved, read, and quoted from frequently, the Doctrine and Covenants, admonishes members of the Church to cultivate the most desirable virtues. The verse quoted at the head of this article is not only an admonition, it is also a description of the qualities possessed by the beloved leader who now has passed on. Every one of these admirable qualities was a part of the personality of President George Albert Smith. It is evident that he was not only familiar with the commandment given to the members of the Church in this revelation but that it furnished the code by which he ordered his life. Few people of this or of any other generation have so closely followed the teachings of the Master and made them a part of their everyday experiences. To attempt to catalog all the virtues of George Albert Smith would be futile. They were too numerous, they were always in evidence. In his love and consideration for others, in his efforts to comfort and cheer those in adverse circumstances, to lift the burdens from the shoulders of friends or strangers, to give advice and counsel to all who sought it, he exemplified during all of his waking hours many of the virtues which are usually attributable only to the Savior. Without guile, humble even in the highest places, always polite and gentlemanly, and striving to avoid offense in word or deed, he was an ideal exemplar. When occasion was afforded, he added to his advice substantial help. His numerous widespread charities will never be known. The number of people he has helped has never been counted and never can be. Those who have been won to better lives by his love are legion. His practice of praising and encouraging people in order to bring out the best in them was effective. His kindly attitude disarmed those who were inclined to dissension, and his warm and friendly approach won thousands to him as admirers. His friend-making ability has been likened to that of his illustrious father's, John Henry Smith. Wherever President Smith went, he had friends in high and low places. Receptionists in business offices in New York, Chicago, and other large cities knew him and showed him every courtesy. This was true also among railroad conductors, Pullman porters, laborers, and others whose acquaintance he had made. His democratic spirit was constantly manifested in his associations with others. As a missionary in the southern states, as a young man and later as president of the European Mission, he was an effective ambassador of the gospel of Jesus Christ. In more recent years on a special mission to the South Seas, he made friends among royalty and admirers among the humblest of natives. President George Albert Smith came of a family that has rendered outstanding service to the nation and to the Church. His ancestors, some of them in the Mayflower company, participated in the Revolutionary War and served in many positions of honor and trust in the sections of New England in which they lived. Joseph Smith, the Prophet, was his third cousin. John Smith, his great-grandfather, was third Patriarch to the Church. Both his grandfather, George A. Smith, and his father, John Henry Smith, were Apostles, and both served in the First Presidency. Other members of the same family have included several of the General Authorities of the Church, among them President Joseph F. Smith and his son, Joseph Fielding Smith, now President of the Council of the Twelve Apostles. His maternal grandfather, Lorin Farr, was first mayor of Ogden and the first president of Weber Stake. President Smith's relatives, combining both of his family lines, now number into the thousands throughout the Church. As a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, the beloved Churchman was accorded high honors in both the state and the nation. He was elected National Vice-President General in 1926 and since then has been a national officer. In the Utah Society he served as president and many terms as director. Under the presidency of George Albert Smith, the Church has made notable gains. The missionary system has been expanded to its highest point in Church history. The building program inaugurated under President Heber J. Grant has been greatly accelerated. New stakes and wards have been created at an unprecedented rate. Church membership has increased, and the prestige of the Church in this and other nations has developed to a marked degree. Above all else, probably the spirit of love and unity within the Church has been made manifest in many ways. Spirituality, tolerance, and love for our fellow men regardless of creed or color, which he frequently urged in sermons and writings, have increased measurably. "All the people of the earth are our Father's children" was a favorite phrase. His conviction that the correct name of the Church he loved should always be used instead of the various nicknames which have been applied caused President Smith to request of publishers and others that the correct name—the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—always be used in full. In requesting the cooperation of close associates in bringing this about, he pointed out that there is no Mormon Church nor L. D. S. Church, and no Church of the Latter-day Saints. His wishes have been respected generally, and the correct and full name of the Church is being used more frequently than ever before. Although his character was essentially spiritual, he had a liking for business, and his natural aptitude for it was manifested in many fields. Among his associates in business who increased in number year after year, his judgment was sought and respected. His advice was conservative but always sound. In civic affairs the beloved leader was honored in many fields. He served as president of the International Irrigation Congress and the International Dry Farm Congress. He was Federal Receiver of Public Moneys and Special Disbursing Agent for the state of Utah. In this capacity he was the first member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Utah to be appointed to a federal office. In his home life, President Smith was both fortunate and happy. For many years he lived on the bank of Red Butte Creek which ran through his yard. This ravine furnished an ideal setting for a summer home, with the stream, trees, and delightful canyon atmosphere. This was his favorite spot on summer evenings. His wife, Lucy Emily Woodruff Smith, died November 5, 1937. During her lifetime they were devoted to each other and made many trips together to distant lands. Her death saddened the Church leader greatly, but he sought comfort in the companionship of his two daughters, Mrs. Robert Murray Stewart, and Mrs. George Elliott, both of Salt Lake City, and a son, George Albert Smith, Jr. George Albert Smith, Jr., fourth in his family to bear that name, is dean of the School of Business Administration of Harvard, University. All were at their father's bedside when the end came. Always a friend of youth, President Smith became an active sponsor of scouting in 1911 when the M.I.A. Scouts were organized. He increased his activity in 1913 when as a member of the general board the program of the Boy Scouts of America was adopted by the Y.M.M.I.A. He became successively a member of the executive board of the Salt Lake Council, a member of the Region Twelve executive committee, and a member of the executive board of the National Council, where he served as chairman of important committees for many years. His advice and counsel were sought by national officers, frequently between sessions of the board. It was largely due to the impetus given to scouting while he was general superintendent of the Y.M.M.I.A. that the Church brought into the movement a higher percent of its boys of Scout age than of any other group did. Recognitions for "outstanding service to boyhood" given to President Smith included the Silver Beaver award by the Salt Lake Council and the Silver Buffalo by the National Council. The Silver Buffalo is the highest award in scouting at any level. If President Smith had one hobby to which he was more devoted than to any other—and he had many— it was young people. From his earliest manhood to the time when his strength began to fail, he embraced every opportunity to serve youth. One of his greatest opportunities came during the years he .spent as general superintendent of the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association from 1921 to 1935. In his leadership he stressed spirituality, culture, clean and wholesome recreation, the Boy Scout program, and the Bee Hive program for girls. Although he was the leader of the young men, the young women of the Church found in him a strong and vigorous champion. He encouraged thousands of young people to secure a good education, and his kindness helped to make this possible in many cases. He encouraged thrift, economy, self-reliance, and other virtues which in a modern world are in danger of being forgotten. At the time of his death, he was president of the board of Brigham Young University, a school he attended as a boy. His efforts to advance the interests of this important Church school have extended over many years. President Smith was not only interested in Church history, but he also loved it. He devoted much time and energy to the task of preserving for future generations, the historic trails, landmarks, and story spots associated with the L. D. S. pioneers and others who explored, pioneered, or served as missionaries of other faiths in the West. Under his direction, all whose accomplishments made history in this area were honored regardless of race or religion. After having acted for the Church in the erection of several important monuments and markers, he was the organizer of the Utah Pioneer Trails and Landmarks Association in 1930 and became its president, serving in the capacity until his death. His many trips over the Mormon Pioneer Trail from Nauvoo to Salt Lake City, and over other historic trails of the West, made him familiar with western America, and he became a recognized authority. President Smith was for many years a member of the board of directors of the Oregon Trail Memorial Association and was one of the organizers of the American Pioneer Trails Association. He had served on the national board since its organization. For a time he was vice-president. He was awarded one of its earliest honorary life memberships. Under his leadership well over a hundred historic monuments and markers have been erected from Nauvoo, Illinois, along pioneer trails to Arizona, Idaho, Wyoming, Nevada, and California. The crowning achievement of his work in preserving western history is the "This is the Place" monument at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, overlooking the valley of the Great Salt Lake. His first efforts to bring this about were in 1915. When the great monument costing more than $500,000.00 with its setting and roadways was dedicated July 24, 1947, it marked the climax of more than thirty years of preparation and planning. When the "This is the Place" monument commission was organized in 1937, President Smith, the leading sponsor, became second vice-chairman. In 1945, upon the death of President Heber J. Grant, he was made chairman and served in that capacity until his death. It was under his chairmanship that the monument was constructed and dedicated. The building of a scenic and historic highway along the Mormon Trail from Henefer to Salt Lake City represents another of his dreams. While he did not live to see either project fully completed, he saw the plans proceed far enough to assure final success. One of the pioneers in aviation in the West, President Smith early became a director of Western Air Express, now Western Airlines. Under his direction, a history log of that airline from San Diego, California, to Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, was prepared for the use of passengers. He participated in many of the early flights between Salt Lake City and Los Angeles. His interest in aviation and his love for flying continued as long as he was active. The welfare of Father Lehi's children, the Indians, was a special concern of President Smith. His visits to Indian reservations in many parts of the country were frequent. As an example in 1941 he spent a week on the Navajo and Hopi reservations in Arizona with stake missionaries. He visited the homes of the Indians, blessed the sick and the aged and spread good cheer and happiness among his many Lamanite friends. One of the notable achievements of his administration as President of the Church has been not only the revival but also the increase of interest in the Indians and their welfare. In high places in Washington he pleaded their cause and through plans set up within the Church has brought about a most remarkable change in the attitude toward the Lamanite remnant. One special interest of President Smith and one that was very near to his heart was The Improvement Era. As general superintendent of the Y.M.M.I.A. in 1929, he took steps which resulted in enlargement and expansion of the magazine under a program that has made it one of the leading church magazines of the world. As its senior editor since 1945, his interest was increased. His monthly editorials were read by people in every civilized nation of the world. Copies of The Improvement Era were always available on his desk and were presented to distinguished visitors at his office. In 1947 he presented the centennial souvenir edition to the governors of each of the forty-eight states. |
GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
APRIL 4, 1870-APRIL 4, 1951 GEORGE ALBERT SMITH AS A CHILD
GEORGE ALBERT SMITH AND HIS WIFE LUCY EMILY WOODRUFF WHILE ON A MISSION IN THE SOUTHERN STATES
"I would be a friend to the friendless and find joy in ministering to the needs of the poor."
CHRONOLOGY OF EVENTS IN A LONG AND DEVOUT LIFE DEDICATED TO THE SERVICE OF THE LORD
April 4, 1870—Born at Salt Lake City, the son of John Henry and Sarah Farr Smith June 1892—Called to the Southern States Mission, subsequently becoming mission secretary July 1894—Mission completed, returned to Salt Lake City October 8, 1903—Ordained an Apostle 1904—Called to the general board of the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association 1919—Called to preside over the European Mission 1921—Returned from that mission September 1921—Called as general superintendent of the Y. M. M. I. A. May 6, 1922—Participated in first preaching the gospel by radio with President Grant and others January 23, 1935—Released as general superintendent, Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association July 8, 1943—Called as President of the Council of the Twelve May 21, 1945—Called as President of the Church September 23, 1945—Dedicated the Idaho Falls Temple October 5, 1945—Sustained as President of the Church by priesthood quorums, voting in solemn assembly, followed by vote of general membership, at general conference November 1945—Visited President Harry S. Truman at Washington, D. C., making arrangements to ship Church welfare supplies to needy European Saints July 10, 1946—Began an automobile journey eastward over the Mormon trail to Nauvoo, Illinois July 15, 1947—Entertained the governors of forty-four states and three territories, who were in Salt Lake City attending a Governors' convention July 24, 1947—Dedicated the "This is the Place" monument at the mouth of Emigration Canyon October 17, 1950—Dedicated the B. Y. U. science building (the last of his many dedications) December 31, 1950—Spoke at Yale Ward (his own ward), Bonneville Stake, sacrament meeting (the last of his lifetime of speeches) January 9, 1951—Last time President Smith came to the office April 4, 1951—His eighty-first birthday, surrounded by his loved ones, he went to his reward, at 7:27 p.m. GEORGE ALBERT SMITH WHEN HE WAS ORDAINED AN APOSTLE
President George Albert Smith and his two daughters, Emily left and Edith right, in a reception at a gathering at his home honoring the nation's governors in July 1947.
The First Presidency of the Church from 1945 to 1951, George Albert Smith, (center); J. Reuben Clark, Jr., (left); and David O. McKay.
President Smith officiating at the unveiling of a plaque at Independence Rock, June 21, 1931 honoring the Pioneers.
President Smith's son, George Albert, Jr. with his son, George Albert III.
SCENES FROM PRESIDENT SMITH'S MANY MISSION ASSIGNMENTS LEFT—IN FRIGID SURROUNDINGS—RIGHT—IN SOUTH SEA CLIMATE
PRESIDENT SMITH RECEIVING THE HONORARY DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF HUMANITIES
From the inception of the Scouting program President Smith has been an ardent supporter and gained high positions in the National Council. The Silver Beaver and the Silver Buffalo were awarded to him.
"This is the Place" Monument at the mouth of Emigration Canyon in Salt Lake Valley was dedicated by President Smith July 24, 1947.
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Smith, Joseph Fielding. "President George Albert Smith, A Tribute." Relief Society Magazine. May 1951. pg. 292-294.
President George Albert Smith A Tribute President Joseph Fielding Smith Of the Council of the Twelve SHAKESPEARE in his play Julius Caesar ascribes to Mark Antony the following tribute as he stands over the fallen body of Brutus after the battle of Philippi: His life was gentle, and the elements So mix'd in him, that Nature might stand up And say to all the world "This was a man!" With far better grace and truth this can be said of President George Albert Smith. He was a man in the full sense in which Shakespeare used this expression. In character and nobility he stood out pre-eminently among his fellows. But President Smith was not only a man by all the critical measurements that could be applied to him by human standards; he was a son of God! Is this blasphemy? In the eyes of the ignorant and the ungodly this statement may be so considered. Such was the accusation brought against the Redeemer of this world by his enemies. Because he declared to them that he was sent by his Father and was verily his Only Begotten Son, they took up stones to stone him. His answer to them was that the scriptures so declared it; and not only this regarding himself, but to all others: "Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods? If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken; Say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God?" Moreover, to Adam was this truth first made known and the Lord said to him, "And thou art after the order of him who was without beginning of days or end of years from all eternity to all eternity. Behold, thou art one in me, a son of God; and thus may all become my sons Amen." He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son (Rev. 21:7). President George Albert Smith never faltered no matter how difficult the task, and like Nephi he knew that when the Lord called, he would prepare the way that his purposes could be accomplished. Every commandment he sacredly observed. He loved his brethren with a righteous love and honored and respected them, each in his given calling. He kept the second great commandment as faithfully as any man I ever knew. His thoughts were constantly employed in the interest of the wayward whom he tried to bring into a better way of life. He never spoke evil of any man; although he deplored the actions of the wicked, he was ever ready to extend the hand of forgiveness to them if they would repent. To him all men were his brothers, children of God created in his image. He filled all the requirements of divine law in the visiting of the sick, extending the hand of mercy to the wayward, comforting those who mourned, cheering the depressed, and in doing good to all men. In all my long acquaintance with him, which dates as far back as memory goes, I never heard a vulgar expression, an unclean word, come from his lips. His friends were numberless and were spread over the four quarters of the earth, He may have had some enemies, for this is the heritage of every righteous man; but if there were such, they were so without justification, and the only reason that could be given for such a thing is that there are some who hate the truth and all those who endeavor to live it. His testimony of the Truth was perfect. He knew that there is a God in heaven; that Jesus Christ is his Only Begotten Son in the flesh. That Joseph Smith was in very deed a prophet and that he was called to open and stand at the head of this glorious last dispensation of the fulness of times. He never faltered in this testimony and bore it to the great and small, to kings and princes, presidents and potentates, without fear or favor. To him all were alike, the rich and the poor, the great and the small— all the children of God. Like Abou Ben Adhem he was one who loved his fellow men, and his name has found its proper place written in the Lamb's Book of Life. |
President George Albert Smith
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Green, Doyle L. "Tributes Paid President George Albert Smith." Improvement Era. June 1951. pg. 404-405, 459-463.
Tributes Paid President George Albert Smith By Doyle L. Green, Managing Editor "When the spirit of George Albert Smith left his earthly remains on April 4, 1951, there went home one of our Father's children who was the very personification of the two great commandments: "And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength" . ;''. and "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." (See Mark 12:30- 31V) Developing this theme at the funeral of President Smith, held April 7 in the Tabernacle in Salt Lake City, Elder Spencer W. Kimball of the Council of the Twelve said that whenever he has thought of "our beloved President" he has always felt that he was very, very near the kingdom of God. Then he added: "It seemed to me that every act, every thought of our President would indicate that with all of his heart and soul he loved the Lord and he loved his fellow men. Is there a mortal being who could have loved them more?" Indeed, George Albert Smith's love for God is evidenced by a long lifetime of diligent service in an unselfish, untiring, and unfaltering effort to further his work and build up his kingdom here upon the earth. And how he loved his neighbor! All his life he was a friend and helper of the poor and the weak, the handicapped and the downtrodden. And at the same time, there was no one in too high a place, or too busy, or too important for George Albert Smith to befriend. When he passed on, countless tributes of love and appreciation, of honor and respect poured in from many parts of the world to his family and the Church. On the floor of the Senate of the United States, time was taken from the stress of world affairs for tributes to be paid by five senators. Tributes were also given in the House of Representatives. By the hundreds the tributes came—by telegram, letter, and word of mouth. The great and the humble forgot him not. In and out of the Church he was remembered. Leaders in religion, government, education, industry, and commerce, as well as Church groups, patriotic, and humanitarian organizations expressed their sympathy and paid him homage. And whether the messages came from the pen or the lips of the most humble Saint, or whether they were delivered by seasoned oratory on the floor of Congress, almost without exception they had the same ring: George Albert Smith, man of God, great American, friend; loved and' respected by all. The Lord knew the worth of George Albert Smith. A patriarchal blessing given to him by Zebedee Coltrin on January 16, 1884, when he was but fourteen years of age, and which was found in President Smith's papers after his death, indicates the high position in the Church to which he would be called. Because of its length, only excerpts from the blessing are given here: . . . the choice blessings of the heavens shall rest down upon you and thou shalt be filled with the inspiration of the Lord, for thou wast called and chosen of the Lord from before- the foundation of the earth was laid to come forth in this dispensation to assist in building up the Zion of God upon the earth, and thou shalt be enabled to go forth to proclaim the gospel unto the inhabitants of the earth, and shall be enabled to bring many to a knowledge of the truth, for thy voice shall be as the voice of a trumpet in declaring the words of the Lord to the nobles of the earth, and many shall believe in thy words and embrace the gospel of the Son of God. For thou shalt be filled with the mighty power of God, and shall be able to do many mighty works in their midst. ... for thou art called to do a great and a mighty work in this great kingdom of God. . . thou shalt become a mighty prophet in the midst of the sons of Zion. And the angels of the Lord shall administer unto you, and the choice blessings of the heavens shall rest upon you. . . And thou shaft be wrapt in the visions of the heavens and thou shalt be clothed with salvation as with a garment, for thou art destined to become a mighty man before the Lord, for thou shalt become a mighty Apostle in the Church and kingdom of God upon the earth, for none of thy father's family shall have more power with God than thou shalt have, for none shall exceed thee, for thy reward shall be great in the heavens, for the blessing of thy father and of thy grandfather shall rest upon thee and thou shalt become a man of mighty faith before the Lord, even like unto that of the brother of Jared, and thou shalt remain upon the earth until thou art satisfied with life, and shall be numbered with the Lord's anointed and shall become a king and a priest unto the Most High, . . . What a blessing to be given to a lad of fourteen! His grandfather, George A. Smith, had been a member of the Council of the Twelve Apostles and first counselor to President Brigham Young. His father, John Henry, at the time of the blessing, was a member of the Council of the Twelve. He later became second counselor in the First Presidency. Excerpts from talks given at President Smith's funeral, held April 7 in the Tabernacle on Temple Square, are indicative of the high esteem in which he was held: President J. Reuben Clark, Jr.: Throughout our association together which has been close and intimate, and under various and trying circumstances, I have never known him even to indicate that he was impatient, that he had lost his temper, or even that he was under the necessity of controlling it. . . . Evil slunk away from him at all times. It could not abide the presence of his righteous living. I do not know what more I can say in tribute to him than that. . . . He was one of those few people of whom you can say that he lived as he taught. That was George Albert Smith. I would like to say a word to the people of the Church. You have lost a great leader—in his line, perhaps, the greatest we have ever had. I think no man that we have ever had in the Church had a greater love for humanity than President George Albert Smith. This great gathering that is here and on the outside today testifies to the truth of that old saying, "Cast thy bread upon the waters for thou shalt find it after many days." He gave his love to everyone he met. He gave his love to all whom he did not meet, and who were seeking to keep the commandments of the Lord, and the sense of that love which came from him to them is what has brought together this great gathering to pay tribute to his memory. President David O. McKay: To President George Albert Smith, beloved father, honored leader, this vast congregation crowding the Tabernacle to overflowing, the Assembly Hall, Barratt Hall, and thousands listening in over the radio, say to you, "The love you have shown to your fellow men is reciprocated fourfold." It is hard for us to express that love, but this is one manifestation of it, for truly the love you have given throughout your life is reciprocated in our hearts for you and we pray for power to emulate your example throughout our lives. . . . Your father, our beloved leader, has lived as nearly as it is humanly possible for a man to live a Christ-like life. He found that the answer to the yearning of the human heart for fulness lies in living outside oneself by love. President George Albert Smith has proved the truth of Christ's paradoxical saying, "Whosoever will lose his life for my sake, shall find it," Elder Matthew Cowley: He loved everyone because he could see the good within them. He did not look upon sin with the least degree of allowance, but he loved the sinner because he knew that God was love, and that it is God's love that regenerates human souls and may, by that process, transform the sinner into a saint. Maybe there are sinners who mistook his love for respect. He didn't respect the sinner, but he loved him. I am sure that love found response in the hearts and in the lives of those whom he loved. . . . Men like this never die. He is an eternal being. God attracts the godly, and I am sure that the shortest journey this man of God ever made in all of his travels has been the journey which he has just taken. God is love. George Albert Smith is love. He is godly. God has taken him unto himself. John F. Fitzpatrick: He was a man without guile, a religious man and a spiritual leader, not only in his own Church—in any group. Even alone with him you had a feeling of this man's spirituality. . . . He liked to talk about the things that were near and dear to his heart, about the pioneers, the pioneer places and trails, and pioneer people. He loved to talk about the brotherhood of man, his genuine love of all mankind, which after all is the true charity of Christ, deeper than any doctrinal differences, that gift from above that makes for richer, fuller understanding of man's feeling toward man. Elder Elbert R. Curtis: He was the apostle of love; broke down barriers, overcame prejudices and misunderstandings, courted and won friendships and loyalties for his people. He inspired us to love as he loved, and to believe as he believed; he helped to build in us the testimony which he had, and it was absolute, of the divinity of Jesus Christ. In the Congressional Record of the United States Senate are printed the five talks paying tribute to George Albert Smith, delivered before that august body. In addition, by unanimous consent of the Senate, there appears a 2300-word biography of President Smith. From the talks the following excerpts were taken: Senator Arthur V. Watkins ( Utah ) : Mr. President, the people of Utah and the Intermountain West generally are in mourning today. They are mourning the loss of President George Albert Smith, the eighth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who died at his home in Salt Lake City, Utah, yesterday, on his birthday. He was eighty-one years of age. President Smith, as he was known to his Church, was regarded by more than a million of his fellow churchmen throughout the world as a Prophet of God. The veneration of love for this great leader, however, was not confined to the members of his own Church. Literally hundreds of thousands of people throughout the United States, and particularly in the West, who knew him personally or of his great work, loved the man for his deep sincerity and his kind Christian spirit of tolerance and helpfulness. He literally loved the peoples of the world. He devoted much of his life as a missionary teaching the gospel of Christ to many countries of the world. In that capacity he was a world traveler. Most of the period of his mature life was spent in Church service, and although that service made heavy demands on his time, he served in many other capacities. Mr. President, in the passing of that humble, kindly man, George Albert Smith, the nation has lost, for this life at least, one of its greatest spiritual leaders and one of its greatest patriots. Senator Wallace F. Bennett (Utah): Mr. President, my heart, too, is heavy today as I associate myself with the senior Senator from Utah in expressing our sense of loss and sorrow at the passing of this man who has been the spiritual leader of the Church to which we both belong. It was my privilege to work intimately with him during the past four or five years, and in that association I have come to appreciate the great human qualities which gave him the power to carry the responsibilities which he bore. He was a gentleman, a very kindly soul. He had great courage and fine judgment. He gave his people outstanding leadership, and they will miss him very much in the years ahead. It is a sorrowful day in Utah and wherever people of our faith are gathered together today. With the senior Senator from Utah I stand before the Senate with a heavy heart and bowed head. Senator Edward Martin (Pennsylvania): Last fall, Mrs. Martin and I had the high privilege of an interview with President Smith. It was a real inspiration to discuss with him the problems confronting America and to have the benefit of his great wisdom. Through long years of observing the trends of our country he had accumulated a fund of facts possessed by few men. He was a distinguished churchman. He was a distinguished American. He loved and practised all of the ideals which have made America the outstanding nation of all time. In these troubled times, when men are attracted to the selfish and material things, we need men of President Smith's courage, justice, and faith. Senator Herman Welker (Idaho). George Albert Smith was the stalwart champion of everything that was good. . . He was a kindly, sweet man. I would that all the people of the world could have known him as we of the West knew him. He loved his fellow men deeply and sincerely, and he ardently, in turn, sought their love. It was a blessing to all of us in the West who knew him that members of all other faiths who knew him admired that great person. The world will long remember the great inspiration and the great leadership that George Albert Smith gave. We need more people like him in the world today. The people of Idaho say farewell to this great man. The world has gained new luster by his life. Senator George W. Malone (Nevada): In every field, the Church of which Mr. Smith was the head had a deep interest in good government. His church had—and still has—a plan which proved most beneficial during the so-called depression which lasted from 1930 to World War II, of supplementing and storing supplies and looking ahead for such things as depressions and lack of work for its people, so that practically none of the members of that great Church has ever been known to be on relief or to participate in an organization which logically could be charged with accepting charity from the United States government. Following are a few of the yet unnumbered telegrams and letters received by President Smith's family, and the Church: The death of your father causes me great personal sorrow. He not only was my friend and the grandson of a friend of my grandfather, but I looked upon him as one of our country's great moral leaders. Mrs. Truman joins me in extending sympathy in your bereavement. Harry S. Truman President of the United States Mrs. Dewey joins me in sending our deepest sympathy to you and your family in the great loss of your distinguished father. He was a great man and spiritual force for good in our country and the world. All of us who had the privilege of his friendship were enriched by it. I know you will be greatly comforted in these days by the countless people who will be sharing your grief and also your satisfaction in the great leadership your father gave. Thomas E. Dewey Governor of the State of New York The leadership of George Albert Smith in the conservation and development of the natural resources of the West for the benefit of humanity is well known. Like the other great leaders of your Church, he has a keen interest in making the desert "blossom as the rose" and only last year discussed with me personally plans for the upper Colorado River development as another step in this great effort. We, in the Bureau of Reclamation, join with you in mourning the passing of a great man. Michael W. Straus Commissioner Bureau of Reclamation The world lost one of its great spiritual leaders and humanitarians in the death of your beloved president, George Albert Smith. I shall always treasure the afternoon he spared me for a visit in Washington last year, and mourn with you and the members of your Church in his passing. Oscar Chapman Secretary of the Interior Just heard over radio in faraway Tonga of the passing of President Smith. Sympathy extended. President Evan W. Huntsman All missionaries and members in South African Mission join Sister Wright and me in extending our heartfelt sympathy at the passing of President George Albert Smith. President Evan P. Wright The veterans of foreign wars of the United States join with all loyal Americans in expressing sincere sympathy in the loss of President George Albert Smith, a man who exemplified the finest ideals of Americanism giving so freely of his time and talents to the youth of America and in promoting brotherly love and understanding among all men regardless of race, creed, or color. Clarence T. Smedly Department Commander James R. Russell Department Adj. In the passing of your father, the Church, the world, and the Scout movement have lost a great leader. On behalf of the National Council, I extend sincerest condolences in your bereavement. We have indeed lost a true friend. Arthur A. Schuck Chief Scout Executive Deeply distressed at the death of President Smith. We will miss him as a friend and as a citizen. My deepest sympathy to you and your associates and to the family. E. Roland Harriman President American National Red Cross The loss of George Albert Smith takes from the American scene a man whose qualities of heart and mind and soul were ever enlisted for the betterment of all. This hard-working, humble, pious man, spiritual leader of a great faith through the years was an especial friend of children stricken by polio and other afflictions. He will indeed be mourned yet will be enshrined in the memories and remembered in the prayers of all who knew and loved him. The National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis I was distressed to learn of the passing of your father, George Albert Smith, Sr., and I want to extend to you and your family my expressions of deepest sympathy in your great loss. While I realize that words are of little value at a time like this, I hope you will gain some consolation from knowing that his many friends and admirers throughout the world share your sorrow with you. He was loved and respected by all, and his inspirational contributions to the religious world will be lasting. If there is anything I can do to be of assistance, please do not hesitate to communicate with me. J. Edgar Hoover Federal Bureau of Investigation Four thousand Brigham Young University students mourn the loss of our greatest mortal inspiration. We loved President Smith because of his great soul, kindly spirit, and righteous example. We are better because of him. May the memory of his wonderful life continue to inspire thousands of future Brigham Young University students. Brigham Young University Student Body Upon my return from the East I am deeply grieved to learn of the passing of your noble father and my good friend. He was one of the finest men I have ever known and a patriotic citizen whom our country can ill afford to lose. Please accept my deepest sympathy for you and all members of your family. My thoughts and prayers will be much with you these days. R. B. Von Kleinsmid University of Southern California In humility and profound personal sorrow, we pay tribute to the late President George Albert Smith of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Our personal sense of loss is heightened by appreciation of his fine, useful, and kindly life. A believer and worker for the best in all men. His influence for good has been worldwide. The continued high standing of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a monument to his memory. A. E. Stoddard President Union Pacific Railroad Western Air Lines sends its tribute to our beloved friend President George Albert Smith who for many years was a director of Western Air Lines and a guiding spirit in the development of air transportation in the West. His friendly help and wise counsel throughout the years have been an inspiration to us all in this company. We shall miss him very much. T. C. Drinkwater President Western Air Lines Deeply distressed over your bereavement. I know the whole State of Utah has suffered a grievous loss. Your father carried an historic burden with foresight and courage. I had looked forward eagerly to his counsel and friendship. Please know I am thinking of you and keeping you in my prayers. Richard S. Watson Episcopal Bishop Elect of Utah To you and President McKay, as well as to all members of the Mormon faith and to the people of the state of Utah in general, all of us in United States Steel send a message of deep sympathy on the death of your great leader and citizen, George Albert Smith. It has been our good fortune during recent years to know and work with President Smith in connection with our steel operations in your great state. All of us have come to respect and admire greatly President Smith, not only for his unselfish devotion to the interests of the Mormon Church, but also for his fine human qualities and for his desire to advance the welfare of Utah. You have lost a great leader and citizen and we a true friend. Irving S. Olds Chairman Board of Directors United States Steel Corp. |
PRESIDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
A Tribute to George Albert Smith
By IRENE JONES Written on the occasion of his seventieth birthday, and recited at the funeral by Sister Jones, who is blind. When life beats hard with stormy hands And bitter teardrops fall, When friendless winter chills my soul And empty echoes call, 'Tis then I turn with eager steps-- My steps though spent and lame To find an understanding heart Where burns a friendly flame, A heart where gentle wisdom dwells Compassionate and kind, Whose faith in God and man has taught A like faith to the blind. I lay my troubles at his feet; Each trial, each bitter loss, The burdens of a hundred more-- He helps us bear the cross. Consecrated by our Lord With apostolic light, Consecrated in his soul He makes our darkness bright. A loving radiance he sheds That comes from God to man. And we who walk in life's long night Can see as others can. Although his tender, loving face From us is shut apart, We see the gracious wisdom Of his understanding heart. We feel the peace within his soul And know a peace our own, We hear his silent prayer And know we do not walk alone. His faith in us will give us strength As unseen paths we plod, Our souls uplifted by this man In partnership with God. |
"In Memory of President George Albert Smith." Improvement Era. February 1953. pg. 83.
In Memory of President George Albert Smith During many years of his lifetime, President George Albert Smith, the eighth President of the Church, was an active member of the Sons of the American Revolution. He had served as an officer in both the Utah society and in the national society. His interest in this organization stemmed from his sense of patriotism, one of the things that motivated his life. Through his activity in the Sons of the American Revolution, he achieved at least two goals that were important to him: (1) He helped foster movements that increased the knowledge and interest of American citizens in American history, ideals, and the responsibility of that citizenship; and (2) through this organization he made a host of friends for himself and for the Church. A short time before his death the national society of the S. A. R. wished to have some of its genealogical and other important records microfilmed. President Smith arranged to have this work done by the Church genealogical society. In appreciation of this, which was one of his last helpful and gracious acts for the S. A. R., and in recognition of the service he had rendered the society for many years, the national officers passed a resolution of appreciation, which, some time later, was made into a citation and presented to George Albert Smith, Jr., as part of the group's national convention, held May 19, 1952, at Houston, Texas. The presentation was made by President- General Wallace C. Hall, who expressed for himself and from all members of the society, warm affection for President Smith, and great admiration and deep appreciation for his long life of service. The citation read as follows: In tribute to his life of service and devotion to his God, his country and his Society and in appreciation of his many contributions and particularly for his assistance in helping our Society to obtain the microfilming of its records through the cooperation of the Genealogical Society of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and in recognition of his outstanding efforts as a true patriot. This Certificate in Memoriam is issued to commemorate the Life and Works of our beloved compatriot GEORGE ALBERT SMITH Past Vice President General of this Society By authority of the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. Attest: Harold L. Putnam, Executive Secretary; Wallace C. Hall, President-General. At an earlier date, immediately following the completion of President Smith's earthly mission, the Sons of the American Revolution had issued another resolution which was one of the many which were read at the President's funeral. It said: The National Society Sons of the American Revolution mourns the passing of one of its most distinguished and beloved compatriots who for thirty years has given unselfishly of his time, energy, and thoughtful co-operation to the good of our country and society. We extend our deepest sympathy to his family and to the Church of which he was such a great leader. Wallace C. Hall President-General These two statements are reminders of the fact, well-known to so many people, that President Smith used every possible opportunity to do good and to extend his helpful, brotherly friendship to all who would receive it, whether they were members of the Church or not. |
PRESIDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH
George Albert Smith, Jr., holding the citation which was presented to him, honoring his father.
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Cannon, Lucy Grant. "In Memory of President George Albert Smith." Instructor. September 1962. pg. 312-313.
PRESIDENT GEORGE ALBERT SMITH . . . Friend-Maker for the Church[1] by Lucy Grant Cannon FOR many years I had the privilege of working in the Mutual Improvement Association with President George Albert Smith, first on the stake level and then on the MIA General Boards. As I look back on those days, I feel more than I probably did then what a wonderful privilege it was to work so closely with a man who was so considerate, so devoted, so Christ-like as President Smith. He truly loved people—all people. Many, many times I have heard him in speaking of people say, "They are all our Father's children." President Smith did not hesitate to let everyone know he belonged to a Church that had Jesus Christ as its head. His testimony of the divinity of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was powerful and touched the hearts of honest men. He was a man of great spiritual strength and a blessed leader of the true Church. In Albert Zobell's book, Story Classics, we find the following from President George Albert Smith: I am reminded of a conversation with a gentleman who was not a member of the Church. He was a judge of the Supreme Court of Oregon. He had been among our people, had come to know a number of them, and he and I became quite well acquainted. We were riding together in an automobile from Nashville, Tennessee, out to the old Jackson Hermitage, and he surprised me by turning in the car and saying, "I wonder if you appreciate the richness of your life?" I said, "I think I do." He said, "I wonder if you do." "Well," I said, "just what do you have in mind?" "Why," he said, "to have been reared as you were in a home where they believed in God and where they had family prayers, where they were familiar with the Bible and where they did not partake of food without thanking the Lord for it." Then he added, "Furthermore, wherever you go everybody knows you are a member of the 'Mormon' Church, and this does not seem to be any disadvantage to you; in fact, they seem to want to do more for you because of it. Here in this great convention you are the only member of your Church; everybody knows who you are. And you can't get off the train in any large city in the United States in which you do not have a friend who would meet you, if he knew you were coming." He continued, "Think of it; think of your forebears and of the lineage of the blood that is in your veins." Then he climaxed it all when he said: "And your sublime faith. I wonder if you appreciate it." I have thought of this many times. With all that God gives us, do we appreciate it? President Smith was a friend-maker for himself and for the Church. He was known in every state in the Union, and through his Church activities was known in Europe and the isles of the sea, in Canada and Mexico. Wherever he went, people felt of his spirit; and, in whatever capacity, whether in Church or business or just traveling, he was a genial companion and found many friends. His many benefactions will never be known. Throughout his life he helped those who were overburdened, sorrowing, and in ill health. He gave to the poor and the needy, visited the sick, and comforted the mourners. While my father, Heber J. Grant, was President of the Church, he was in Chicago where he had undergone a serious operation. He was very, very sick. President Smith was coming home from the East and stopped in Chicago. On hearing of Father's serious condition, he went immediately to the hospital, right from the train. He and my brother-in- law, Robert L. Judd, administered to Father; and Father was miraculously healed. About seventeen years ago I was in the hospital, sent there for observation, the doctors thinking it might be necessary for me to undergo a serious operation. President Smith came along the corridor and, looking into my room, came in and asked me why I was in the hospital. I told him I was there for observation and the doctors said I might have to undergo another operation, a thing I dreaded and hoped would not come to me again, as I had been under the knife several times in my life. We chatted a minute or two, and he said, "I have a blessing for you." He then gave me a blessing and asked our Heavenly Father to heal me. When the doctors examined me the next day, they told me that my disturbance had disappeared and that I could go home. I have never had any indication of that trouble since that time. One story I have told illustrates President Smith's concern for "our Father's children." President Smith and I had been on an appointment for the General Board of the MIA to a convention in Idaho. We were returning home on the train and were sitting side by side visiting. He looked across the aisle and saw a young mother and her children. She was surrounded by baggage. President Smith said to me, "I think that young mother is going on a long journey because of the amount of baggage she has." In a few minutes President Smith was over talking to the young mother. He came back to our seat and said, "Yes, it is just as I thought. The little mother is going on a long journey; I have looked at her ticket. I can't understand why the man who sold it to her didn't know a better route for her to travel. As it is she will have a long wait in Ogden and again in Chicago. I have her ticket and am going to get off in Ogden and see if I can't get it changed so she can make other connections and not have the long waits in Ogden and Chicago." President Smith was off the train the moment it stopped. We had a wait of about half an hour in Ogden. He was back on the train just a few seconds before our train left for Salt Lake. He came and sat down and after a few moments' rest said, "Yes, it was just as I thought. I was able to get the young mother's ticket changed. She is leaving Ogden much sooner, and she will not have such a long wait in Chicago. I really should have been a railroad man—I do enjoy traveling and helping other travelers." President Smith gained a friend, and I am sure that woman will never forget him. He also gave me one more evidence of his kindly service to his fellow men. [1] (For Course 14, lesson of November 25, "Peter's Vision"; for Course 2, lesson of September 23, "We Make Friends when We Are Kind"; and for Course 18, lesson of October 28, "Tolerance.") |