Jennie B. Knight
Born: 13 December 1875
Called as First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency: 2 April 1921
Released: 7 October 1928
Died: 31 March 1957
Called as First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency: 2 April 1921
Released: 7 October 1928
Died: 31 March 1957
Image source: Relief Society Magazine, December 1928
Biographical Articles
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 4
Relief Society Magazine, February 1928, Counselor Jennie B. Knight Honored
Relief Society Magazine, December 1928, Jennie Brimhall Knight
Relief Society Magazine, December 1928, Counselor Jennie Brimhall Knight
Relief Society Magazine, April 1929, Mrs. Jennie B. Knight Honored
Relief Society Magazine, December 1939, Jennie Brimhall Knight
Relief Society Magazine, June 1957, In Memoriam - Lucy Jane Brimhall Knight
Relief Society Magazine, February 1928, Counselor Jennie B. Knight Honored
Relief Society Magazine, December 1928, Jennie Brimhall Knight
Relief Society Magazine, December 1928, Counselor Jennie Brimhall Knight
Relief Society Magazine, April 1929, Mrs. Jennie B. Knight Honored
Relief Society Magazine, December 1939, Jennie Brimhall Knight
Relief Society Magazine, June 1957, In Memoriam - Lucy Jane Brimhall Knight
Jenson, Andrew. "Knight, Jennie Brimhall." Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 4. pg. 190-191.
KNIGHT, Lucy Jane (Jennie) Brimhall, a member of the General Board of Relief Society since April 2, 1921, and first counselor in the General Presidency from 1921 to 1928, was born Dec. 13, 1875, at Spanish Fork, Utah, a daughter of George Henry Brimhall and Alsina Elizabeth Wilkins. She graduated from the B. Y. U. in 1895 and taught in the public schools of the San Juan County and later in the B. Y. U. Training School. She was one of the first two regularly called women missionaries in the Church and filled a mission to England in 1898-1899. On Jan. 18, 1899, she was married to Jesse William Knight and soon afterwards, with her husband, went to Canada, where they were among the founders and pioneers of Raymond, Alberta, Bro. Knight being engaged in establishing industries among the saints there. While in Canada Sister Knight presided over the Taylor Stake Y. L. M. I. A. for five years and later presided over the Utah Stake Y. L. M. I. A. for eight years. She also served as matron of the B. Y. U. for three years. During the war she was chosen second vice-president of the Women's Council of Defense of Utah and was a delegate from Utah to the United States Council of Defense held in Washington, D. C. In May, 1925, she attended the International Council of Women at Washington, D. C, and since 1930 she has been vice-chairman of the Utah County Red Cross. Sister Knight is the mother of two sons.
KNIGHT, Lucy Jane (Jennie) Brimhall, a member of the General Board of Relief Society since April 2, 1921, and first counselor in the General Presidency from 1921 to 1928, was born Dec. 13, 1875, at Spanish Fork, Utah, a daughter of George Henry Brimhall and Alsina Elizabeth Wilkins. She graduated from the B. Y. U. in 1895 and taught in the public schools of the San Juan County and later in the B. Y. U. Training School. She was one of the first two regularly called women missionaries in the Church and filled a mission to England in 1898-1899. On Jan. 18, 1899, she was married to Jesse William Knight and soon afterwards, with her husband, went to Canada, where they were among the founders and pioneers of Raymond, Alberta, Bro. Knight being engaged in establishing industries among the saints there. While in Canada Sister Knight presided over the Taylor Stake Y. L. M. I. A. for five years and later presided over the Utah Stake Y. L. M. I. A. for eight years. She also served as matron of the B. Y. U. for three years. During the war she was chosen second vice-president of the Women's Council of Defense of Utah and was a delegate from Utah to the United States Council of Defense held in Washington, D. C. In May, 1925, she attended the International Council of Women at Washington, D. C, and since 1930 she has been vice-chairman of the Utah County Red Cross. Sister Knight is the mother of two sons.
"Counselor Jennie B. Knight Honored." Relief Society Magazine. February 1928. pg. 78.
Counselor Jennie B. Knight Honored
Again the members of the General Board and all associated with the Relief Society will feel a sense of pride and pleasure in the fact that Mrs. Jennie B. Knight was selected as a member of the nominating committee at the recent biennial of the National Council of Women. Not only was she a member of the nominating committee but from that group she, with Miss Tellberg of Vassar College, was selected to interview President Valeria H. Parker in regard to accepting another term as presiding officer of the Council. We are exceedingly happy that Mrs. Knight could make it convenient to attend the conference.
Counselor Jennie B. Knight Honored
Again the members of the General Board and all associated with the Relief Society will feel a sense of pride and pleasure in the fact that Mrs. Jennie B. Knight was selected as a member of the nominating committee at the recent biennial of the National Council of Women. Not only was she a member of the nominating committee but from that group she, with Miss Tellberg of Vassar College, was selected to interview President Valeria H. Parker in regard to accepting another term as presiding officer of the Council. We are exceedingly happy that Mrs. Knight could make it convenient to attend the conference.
Allan, Inez Knight. "Jennie Brimhall Knight." Relief Society Magazine. December 1928. pg. 644-648.
Jennie Brimhall Knight
By Inez Knight Allen
On a. visit last year to San Juan, I was greeted with expressions of appreciation and messages of love for Jennie B. Knight. All this, because many years ago the lives of these persons had been enriched by her teaching in their community. Her influence had stood the test of time. Her ideals had been upheld by her example. As surely as the flowers continue their growth by the warmth of the sun, even throughout the darkness of the night, the imprint of her character has been with that people for good through all the years since then.
The companions of her childhood, from those days of sorrow and of struggle, are pleased now to be counted among her friends. Because she is a friend, she has never had too little or too much to share with others. Her unusual human understanding and sympathy are of rare value. In a truly motherly way, she has charity for the weakness and mistakes of others, seeking always for the motive of action rather than to chastise.
Jennie Brimhall Knight was born in Spanish Fork, December 13, 1875, daughter of Dr. George H. Brimhall and Alsina, E. Wilkins Brimhall. Near the spot where now stands the Spanish Fork High School she spent her early life. In the public schools of Spanish Fork she early manifested scholastic ability. While yet a young school girl she typified originality and tact in meeting situations. When her class had been asked to write an original story, she stood in line with class-mates who read in turn. Her unusual fluency of delivery and the fascination of her story gave her a high standing, even though, as the teacher observed, not a word had been written. When she was graduated from the eighth grade, she and one other pupil accepted scholarships of award to the University of Utah.
Though at times popular sentiment and her own desires might have been otherwise, from childhood throughout her life she has been loyal to right and to authority in her home and in the Church. When quite young, the advice of the Church authorities was against waltzing. She asked her father if he was going to tell her to stop waltzing, (for she was popular and loved to dance). He said, “You don’t need me to tell you to stop.” After she pondered it well in her mind, she returned to her father saying, “I will not waltz in violation of Church counsel.” Thus, in the face of public sentiment, she was brave.
In 1895 she was graduated from the B. Y. U. On that occasion she manifested her loyalty to her father in the following incident: In her graduating class there were only six girls, all of whom were close friends to whom graduation meant the greatest event up to that time. These girls had decided on similar dresses for the occasion. They were of white silk and of course had to be made, as no dresses were ready-made then. So the costumes were complete and hopes ran high for the anticipated event in the new silk dress (silk dresses were rare). Jennie’s father said to her, “I wish you wouldn’t wear that new dress. I believe a girl should receive her certificate in her school dress.” So Jennie with her same sweet smile marched up in a well-worn old red school dress, while all the others were in white silk. Also she was for that occasion the historian of the class. She worked long and hard and to the delight of companions and satisfaction of herself, prepared a very clever history of her class. In this story she had used Book of Mormon language and style. At a late date, when her father listened to what she was to deliver, he said: “Do you think it quite right to tell a humorous story in that language? I’m afraid, clever though it is, you should not do it.” So, on the eve of this event, she hastily prepared anew the history of her class.
During her school days she taught a. Sunday School class. She worked in the M. I. A., serving on the stake board with Sister Mecham when Utah stake extended from Lehi to Goshen, her associates all being mature women.
Immediately after graduation Jennie B. taught school in San Juan. In that community she took part in all Church activities. Later she taught in the B. Y. U. Training School, and because of distinctive service was tendered a life certificate to teach in public schools of the State.
In 1898 Jennie B. Knight was regularly called and sent on a mission to England, being one of the first two called for such a mission. She visited with the presidency of the European mission, all the conferences, each in conference assembled, in England, Scotland and Wales.. . So effective was her testimony that after twenty years an unbeliever who listened to her speak wrote, saying he could never forget her sincere, guileless expression and was led further to investigate and receive the blessings of membership. She filled an honorable mission, making many real friends. When Jennie B. is once a friend, she is a friend always; and some of the members of the Church in her missionary days over there still cling to her as benefactor.
On January 18, 1899, Jennie B. was married to Jesse Wm. Knight, son of Amanda McEwan and Jesse Knight. She has two sons Richard and Philip. Shortly thereafter they removed to Canada, where the Taylor stake was organized. She became stake president of the M. I. A.—a position she held five years, at the same time teaching in the Relief Society. Her husband was a bishop there, and her life was typical of wholesome hospitality.
On her return to Provo, Mrs. Knight was made President of Utah Stake M. I. A. This position she filled with honor for eight years. During that time Mutual Isle, the canyon home for girls, was built, and opened. For several years she served as Relief Society Stake Board member.
During the war Jennie B. was chosen vice-president of the State Council of Defense, Woman’s Division, and went as their representative to Washington.
While working on the Utah Stake Relief Society Board she was called to act as first counselor to Clarissa Smith Williams of the General Board of Relief Society. The fine characteristics of her life continued with her in this high calling. She is humble, unassuming, yet wise and fearless. She is straight-forward, honest, frank, true to principle and to associates. She is that kind of soul who can know the faults of her friends and love them still.
She is ever loyal to the Priesthood. The will of the Authorities and of the officers and Board, was her will and she sustained it in heart and action.
During her service as counselor to President Williams, though she lived in Provo, she never was late for a meeting, nor absent except for sickness or from being on other Relief Society business. She attended conventions in stakes all over the Church, and was present at the dedication services of the Canadian temple. Her judgment is what might be termed safe and sane, but in no sense reactionary; for these reasons she has made an exceedingly good counselor.
One needs but visit any stake or meet any members or officers in the stakes where she has visited to know how well her work has been received. As an executive, we recall the excellent manner in which she presided and conducted the April conference during President Williams’ illness. In addition to Mrs. Knight’s local service she has gone as a Relief Society representative to the sessions of the National Council of Women a number of times, twice as a delegate to the Council Biennial and once as a representative to a Board meeting. She was also in attendance at the Quinquennial held in the United States in 1925. While serving as vice-president of the Woman’s Division of the State Council of Defense Mrs. Knight attended the convention of the National Council of Defense held in Washington, D. C. There she reported the work of the women of the state. At Governor Bamberger’s request she attended the Peace Conference held in the city of Philadelphia the year that William Howard Taft was president. Mrs. Knight has also been a delegate from the Relief Society to two of the national conferences of social workers of the United States.
In her own comfortable well managed home she reigns as a queen—a very kind and sympathetic queen.
In her patriarchal blessing received as a child, she was told she should place a blanket on the bed of the widows and she should clothe the orphans. The blanket she spreads is always one of comfort because she gives of herself with the gift. Indeed, she has no superior in doing the kindest things in the kindest way. She has more than fulfilled the promise of “clothing the orphan.” She has mothered the orphan in all that the term implies. More than one child has found temporary refuge and loving care in her home, to tide over a time of stress and to go out provided well for many future days. Her family testify that she has had wisdom to 'know the right and the courage to stand by it, thus being the peace-maker and the wise counselor to all members of her own and her husband’s family.
Jennie Brimhall Knight
By Inez Knight Allen
On a. visit last year to San Juan, I was greeted with expressions of appreciation and messages of love for Jennie B. Knight. All this, because many years ago the lives of these persons had been enriched by her teaching in their community. Her influence had stood the test of time. Her ideals had been upheld by her example. As surely as the flowers continue their growth by the warmth of the sun, even throughout the darkness of the night, the imprint of her character has been with that people for good through all the years since then.
The companions of her childhood, from those days of sorrow and of struggle, are pleased now to be counted among her friends. Because she is a friend, she has never had too little or too much to share with others. Her unusual human understanding and sympathy are of rare value. In a truly motherly way, she has charity for the weakness and mistakes of others, seeking always for the motive of action rather than to chastise.
Jennie Brimhall Knight was born in Spanish Fork, December 13, 1875, daughter of Dr. George H. Brimhall and Alsina, E. Wilkins Brimhall. Near the spot where now stands the Spanish Fork High School she spent her early life. In the public schools of Spanish Fork she early manifested scholastic ability. While yet a young school girl she typified originality and tact in meeting situations. When her class had been asked to write an original story, she stood in line with class-mates who read in turn. Her unusual fluency of delivery and the fascination of her story gave her a high standing, even though, as the teacher observed, not a word had been written. When she was graduated from the eighth grade, she and one other pupil accepted scholarships of award to the University of Utah.
Though at times popular sentiment and her own desires might have been otherwise, from childhood throughout her life she has been loyal to right and to authority in her home and in the Church. When quite young, the advice of the Church authorities was against waltzing. She asked her father if he was going to tell her to stop waltzing, (for she was popular and loved to dance). He said, “You don’t need me to tell you to stop.” After she pondered it well in her mind, she returned to her father saying, “I will not waltz in violation of Church counsel.” Thus, in the face of public sentiment, she was brave.
In 1895 she was graduated from the B. Y. U. On that occasion she manifested her loyalty to her father in the following incident: In her graduating class there were only six girls, all of whom were close friends to whom graduation meant the greatest event up to that time. These girls had decided on similar dresses for the occasion. They were of white silk and of course had to be made, as no dresses were ready-made then. So the costumes were complete and hopes ran high for the anticipated event in the new silk dress (silk dresses were rare). Jennie’s father said to her, “I wish you wouldn’t wear that new dress. I believe a girl should receive her certificate in her school dress.” So Jennie with her same sweet smile marched up in a well-worn old red school dress, while all the others were in white silk. Also she was for that occasion the historian of the class. She worked long and hard and to the delight of companions and satisfaction of herself, prepared a very clever history of her class. In this story she had used Book of Mormon language and style. At a late date, when her father listened to what she was to deliver, he said: “Do you think it quite right to tell a humorous story in that language? I’m afraid, clever though it is, you should not do it.” So, on the eve of this event, she hastily prepared anew the history of her class.
During her school days she taught a. Sunday School class. She worked in the M. I. A., serving on the stake board with Sister Mecham when Utah stake extended from Lehi to Goshen, her associates all being mature women.
Immediately after graduation Jennie B. taught school in San Juan. In that community she took part in all Church activities. Later she taught in the B. Y. U. Training School, and because of distinctive service was tendered a life certificate to teach in public schools of the State.
In 1898 Jennie B. Knight was regularly called and sent on a mission to England, being one of the first two called for such a mission. She visited with the presidency of the European mission, all the conferences, each in conference assembled, in England, Scotland and Wales.. . So effective was her testimony that after twenty years an unbeliever who listened to her speak wrote, saying he could never forget her sincere, guileless expression and was led further to investigate and receive the blessings of membership. She filled an honorable mission, making many real friends. When Jennie B. is once a friend, she is a friend always; and some of the members of the Church in her missionary days over there still cling to her as benefactor.
On January 18, 1899, Jennie B. was married to Jesse Wm. Knight, son of Amanda McEwan and Jesse Knight. She has two sons Richard and Philip. Shortly thereafter they removed to Canada, where the Taylor stake was organized. She became stake president of the M. I. A.—a position she held five years, at the same time teaching in the Relief Society. Her husband was a bishop there, and her life was typical of wholesome hospitality.
On her return to Provo, Mrs. Knight was made President of Utah Stake M. I. A. This position she filled with honor for eight years. During that time Mutual Isle, the canyon home for girls, was built, and opened. For several years she served as Relief Society Stake Board member.
During the war Jennie B. was chosen vice-president of the State Council of Defense, Woman’s Division, and went as their representative to Washington.
While working on the Utah Stake Relief Society Board she was called to act as first counselor to Clarissa Smith Williams of the General Board of Relief Society. The fine characteristics of her life continued with her in this high calling. She is humble, unassuming, yet wise and fearless. She is straight-forward, honest, frank, true to principle and to associates. She is that kind of soul who can know the faults of her friends and love them still.
She is ever loyal to the Priesthood. The will of the Authorities and of the officers and Board, was her will and she sustained it in heart and action.
During her service as counselor to President Williams, though she lived in Provo, she never was late for a meeting, nor absent except for sickness or from being on other Relief Society business. She attended conventions in stakes all over the Church, and was present at the dedication services of the Canadian temple. Her judgment is what might be termed safe and sane, but in no sense reactionary; for these reasons she has made an exceedingly good counselor.
One needs but visit any stake or meet any members or officers in the stakes where she has visited to know how well her work has been received. As an executive, we recall the excellent manner in which she presided and conducted the April conference during President Williams’ illness. In addition to Mrs. Knight’s local service she has gone as a Relief Society representative to the sessions of the National Council of Women a number of times, twice as a delegate to the Council Biennial and once as a representative to a Board meeting. She was also in attendance at the Quinquennial held in the United States in 1925. While serving as vice-president of the Woman’s Division of the State Council of Defense Mrs. Knight attended the convention of the National Council of Defense held in Washington, D. C. There she reported the work of the women of the state. At Governor Bamberger’s request she attended the Peace Conference held in the city of Philadelphia the year that William Howard Taft was president. Mrs. Knight has also been a delegate from the Relief Society to two of the national conferences of social workers of the United States.
In her own comfortable well managed home she reigns as a queen—a very kind and sympathetic queen.
In her patriarchal blessing received as a child, she was told she should place a blanket on the bed of the widows and she should clothe the orphans. The blanket she spreads is always one of comfort because she gives of herself with the gift. Indeed, she has no superior in doing the kindest things in the kindest way. She has more than fulfilled the promise of “clothing the orphan.” She has mothered the orphan in all that the term implies. More than one child has found temporary refuge and loving care in her home, to tide over a time of stress and to go out provided well for many future days. Her family testify that she has had wisdom to 'know the right and the courage to stand by it, thus being the peace-maker and the wise counselor to all members of her own and her husband’s family.
"Counselor Jennie Brimhall Knight." Relief Society Magazine. December 1928. pg. 651-652.
Counselor Jennie Brimhall Knight
Jennie Brimhall Knight is a woman whom people intuitively trust and that trust which her personality invites has never been betrayed so far as we know, and it has been our privilege to know her rather intimately over a period of thirty years or more. She is straightforward and honest in the strictest sense of the word; deception of any sort, has no abiding place with her. She is a woman of convictions and has the courage of her convictions. None who know her have ever feared that she might be the victim of untoward influences personal or otherwise that would lead her from the path of her well thought-out convictions. She has spent her life doing good to her neighbors and all who have come in contact with her have been her neighbors. Her point of view is a progressive point and her contacts sympathetic. As a counselor she has given complete satisfaction to her president and the Board and to the vast army of women who have listened to her carefully thought-out and inspiring addresses at the Relief Society conferences and conventions, and at the conferences and conventions that she has visited in all parts of the Church; for in this work she has a distinguished record.
Her loyalty to the organization, to its membership and to the Church has been an outstanding quality of her work. Although her home was in Provo she has the enviable record of never having missed a session of the Executive Committee or of the Board, or of being late, when she was in the state, except as we recall it on one occasion when she suffered from an accident that made it necessary for her to remain in her home during the week. Mrs. Knight had been so thoughtful of other members of the Board when inconvenienced by illness that we were rather seeking an opportunity to express our devotion to her. This accident furnished the first excuse and the Board responded with flowers and a letter. Her last address at the conference is so characteristic of her that we feel sure that Relief Society workers reading that address will gain from it a feeling for the quality of her faith and loyalty that can scarcely be had as well in any other way.
Jennie Brimhall Knight has been a great favorite and justly so. During the period of President Williams’ enforced confinement in her home because of her husband’s illness and her own impaired health, Mrs. Knight as first counselor carried the responsibility of the president. Her co-workers on the Board greatly enjoyed the kindness, good will and good -judgment expressed in her manner of presiding. She had the responsibility of the April Conference-Convention when a good many special meetings occurred between the regular meetings. The air was resonant with words of approbation and appreciation for Mrs. Knight because of the manner in which she carried that responsibility. Particularly was it noticed by members that she kept in the foreground the name of her absent president. Every address began with a communication to her auditors expressing the deep interest of President Williams in everything connected with the Board and explaining the cause of her absence. Mrs. Knight is a woman of rare charm and that charm was never more perceptible or engaging than during the strenuous days of the convention.
Counselor Jennie Brimhall Knight
Jennie Brimhall Knight is a woman whom people intuitively trust and that trust which her personality invites has never been betrayed so far as we know, and it has been our privilege to know her rather intimately over a period of thirty years or more. She is straightforward and honest in the strictest sense of the word; deception of any sort, has no abiding place with her. She is a woman of convictions and has the courage of her convictions. None who know her have ever feared that she might be the victim of untoward influences personal or otherwise that would lead her from the path of her well thought-out convictions. She has spent her life doing good to her neighbors and all who have come in contact with her have been her neighbors. Her point of view is a progressive point and her contacts sympathetic. As a counselor she has given complete satisfaction to her president and the Board and to the vast army of women who have listened to her carefully thought-out and inspiring addresses at the Relief Society conferences and conventions, and at the conferences and conventions that she has visited in all parts of the Church; for in this work she has a distinguished record.
Her loyalty to the organization, to its membership and to the Church has been an outstanding quality of her work. Although her home was in Provo she has the enviable record of never having missed a session of the Executive Committee or of the Board, or of being late, when she was in the state, except as we recall it on one occasion when she suffered from an accident that made it necessary for her to remain in her home during the week. Mrs. Knight had been so thoughtful of other members of the Board when inconvenienced by illness that we were rather seeking an opportunity to express our devotion to her. This accident furnished the first excuse and the Board responded with flowers and a letter. Her last address at the conference is so characteristic of her that we feel sure that Relief Society workers reading that address will gain from it a feeling for the quality of her faith and loyalty that can scarcely be had as well in any other way.
Jennie Brimhall Knight has been a great favorite and justly so. During the period of President Williams’ enforced confinement in her home because of her husband’s illness and her own impaired health, Mrs. Knight as first counselor carried the responsibility of the president. Her co-workers on the Board greatly enjoyed the kindness, good will and good -judgment expressed in her manner of presiding. She had the responsibility of the April Conference-Convention when a good many special meetings occurred between the regular meetings. The air was resonant with words of approbation and appreciation for Mrs. Knight because of the manner in which she carried that responsibility. Particularly was it noticed by members that she kept in the foreground the name of her absent president. Every address began with a communication to her auditors expressing the deep interest of President Williams in everything connected with the Board and explaining the cause of her absence. Mrs. Knight is a woman of rare charm and that charm was never more perceptible or engaging than during the strenuous days of the convention.
"Mrs. Jennie B. Knight Honored." Relief Society Magazine. April 1929. pg. 184-185.
Mrs. Jennie B. Knight Honored
The President’s suite in the Hotel Utah was- the scene of another festive occasion on Wednesday, February 20th, when a dinner was given to honor three Board Members, but particularly to take note of the services of Sister Jennie B. Knight, first counselor to President Clarissa Smith Williams during the period of her presidency and now a member of the General Board. The committee consisted of Mrs. Lotta Paul Baxter, Mrs. Emma A. Empey and Mrs. Amy W. Evans. Corsage bouquets were placed at the covers of Mrs. Jennie B. Knight, Miss Alice L. Reynolds, and Mrs. Inez Knight Allen, in recognition of the cordial welcome and hospitality extended to Board Members during the recent Leadership Week held at the Brigham Young University.
The dinner was arranged especially to give the Board Members an opportunity to express appreciation to Sister Knight. To this end, all the Board Members paid her tribute and were exceedingly happy for the opportunity. Some did it through the medium of stories which were part of Sister Knight’s history, and some through tributes to her sterling qualities. The dinner was arranged by Mrs. Emma A. Empey and presided over by President Louise Y. Robison. It was an occasion of festive cheer and good will.
Mrs. Knight was presented with a book in a beautiful leather cover resembling Roycroft work—a book that can be used by her for her notes when she goes out to conventions or on any occasion when she wishes to use it. The presentation speech was made by Mrs. Lotta Paul Baxter, who in fitting words expressed the appreciation of the Board to Sister Knight and their devotion to her.
Mrs. Jennie B. Knight Honored
The President’s suite in the Hotel Utah was- the scene of another festive occasion on Wednesday, February 20th, when a dinner was given to honor three Board Members, but particularly to take note of the services of Sister Jennie B. Knight, first counselor to President Clarissa Smith Williams during the period of her presidency and now a member of the General Board. The committee consisted of Mrs. Lotta Paul Baxter, Mrs. Emma A. Empey and Mrs. Amy W. Evans. Corsage bouquets were placed at the covers of Mrs. Jennie B. Knight, Miss Alice L. Reynolds, and Mrs. Inez Knight Allen, in recognition of the cordial welcome and hospitality extended to Board Members during the recent Leadership Week held at the Brigham Young University.
The dinner was arranged especially to give the Board Members an opportunity to express appreciation to Sister Knight. To this end, all the Board Members paid her tribute and were exceedingly happy for the opportunity. Some did it through the medium of stories which were part of Sister Knight’s history, and some through tributes to her sterling qualities. The dinner was arranged by Mrs. Emma A. Empey and presided over by President Louise Y. Robison. It was an occasion of festive cheer and good will.
Mrs. Knight was presented with a book in a beautiful leather cover resembling Roycroft work—a book that can be used by her for her notes when she goes out to conventions or on any occasion when she wishes to use it. The presentation speech was made by Mrs. Lotta Paul Baxter, who in fitting words expressed the appreciation of the Board to Sister Knight and their devotion to her.
Robison, Louise Y. "Jennie Brimhall Knight." Relief Society Magazine. December 1939. pg. 808-810.
Jennie Brimhall Knight
By President Louise Y. Robison
COUNTING life in events, rather than in years, it seems that I have always known Jennie Brimhall Knight; yet, I had not met her before I voted to sustain her, April 1,1921, as First Counselor to Clarissa S. Williams, General President of the Relief Society. That was a memorable experience —meeting two of the most lovable women I have ever known and for the first time in my life going to the office of the First Presidency.
President Grant greeted us cordially. He had been acquainted with President Williams since early childhood; he knew Mrs. Knight and had high regard for her father’s family as well as for her husband and his family, but for a few moments he could not place me. Those were embarrassing moments until he recalled my parents, my husband and his family; he most graciously traced genealogy far and wide and put me at ease by laughingly saying we were relatives. It was in that moment of embarrassment that Mrs. Knight looked at me with those understanding, expressive eyes, and I felt secure and at peace—she was my friend.
This friendship has grown more precious with the years, for she has that rare quality of friendship which is vitalized by doing and growing, and she has the ability to inspire her friends to improve with her.
As First Counselor to Mrs. Williams during the seven and a half years of her presidency, Mrs. Knight was loyal, competent and dependable. Regular Executive and Board meetings were held each week, with often an extra session, but the weather was never too cold to keep her from coming all the way from Provo . to be in attendance.
Her sound judgment, her sympathetic understanding of human needs and her untiring devotion to Relief Society was a great strength to President Williams who loved her dearly. The bond of affection between these two great women was beautiful to see. President Williams’ voice was a real caress when she spoke the name “Jennie”.
In describing success, someone has said: “If the passing years have left you in their flight, new stores of wisdom, kindliness, tolerance, patience—that is success.” Jennie B. Knight has all these virtues—and more. She has added love and in return is loved by all who have been privileged to know her.
She has faith and a sincere testimony of the truthfulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith. Her faith has strengthened the testimony of others.
Few women have had the wide opportunity for service which Mrs. Knight has had, and few have been so well prepared for that service.
Jennie Brimhall and Inez Knight were the first lady missionaries, called and sent as such, to a foreign country. In addition to this experience, Mrs. Knight has visited most of the stakes and many wards and missions as General Board officer and member. It is a pleasure to visit a Relief Society after she has held a conference or convention. People invariably speak lovingly of her wisdom, her practical advice and her ability to adjust to any situation.
Mrs. Knight graduated from the Brigham Young University with high honors. Later, she taught in the Training School of her beloved B. Y. U. and also served as Dean of Women.
She is a life member of the National Council of Women. A few of the outstanding activities which have claimed her attention are: Stake President Y. W. M. I. A. of Taylor Stake; Stake President Y. W. M. I. A. of Utah Stake; Relief Society Board Member, Utah Stake; Governor Bamberger’s representative at a peace conference in Philadelphia; Vice President State Council of Defense, Woman’s Division, and a representative of the Council in Washington, D. C.; representative of the Relief Society at conventions of the National Council of Women upon several occasions, and as a delegate to the Quinquennial in Washington, D. C. she became acquainted with many noted foreign women. She was also a delegate to National Conferences of Social Workers of the United States.
With all of these interests—and many more—Jennie B. Knight is a model homemaker, an ideal wife and mother, an hospitable hostess and a trusted friend.
On January 18, 1899, Jennie Brimhall was married to Jesse William Knight who has wholeheartedly assisted his wife in all of her activities. Their two sons, Richard and Phillip, are married, and three adorable grandchildren now claim loving attention.
One wonders how a person can have so many virtues and abilities, how being gracious and doing right come, apparently, so easy. Back of most people with these great gifts are fine, wise parents. Jennie Brimhall was very fortunate in being born into the home of Dr. George PI. Brimhall and Alsina E. Wilkins Brimhall. Many instances of character training in Jennie’s young life are delightfully told by Inez Knight Allen in a tribute to “Jennie B.” in the November, 1928 issue of the Relief Society Magazine.
After eighteen years of loyal, devoted service to Relief Society as First Counselor to President Williams and member of the General Board of Relief Society, Mrs. Knight has asked for her release. President Grant approves of her request, and each member of the General Board reluctantly acquiesce.
The name of Jennie Brimhall Knight will be lovingly remembered in thousands of homes of Relief Society women. Their good wishes and their earnest prayers for her happiness will ever follow her. She has proven the Prophet Micah’s interpretation of real service:
“Only to do justly and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God."
Jennie Brimhall Knight
By President Louise Y. Robison
COUNTING life in events, rather than in years, it seems that I have always known Jennie Brimhall Knight; yet, I had not met her before I voted to sustain her, April 1,1921, as First Counselor to Clarissa S. Williams, General President of the Relief Society. That was a memorable experience —meeting two of the most lovable women I have ever known and for the first time in my life going to the office of the First Presidency.
President Grant greeted us cordially. He had been acquainted with President Williams since early childhood; he knew Mrs. Knight and had high regard for her father’s family as well as for her husband and his family, but for a few moments he could not place me. Those were embarrassing moments until he recalled my parents, my husband and his family; he most graciously traced genealogy far and wide and put me at ease by laughingly saying we were relatives. It was in that moment of embarrassment that Mrs. Knight looked at me with those understanding, expressive eyes, and I felt secure and at peace—she was my friend.
This friendship has grown more precious with the years, for she has that rare quality of friendship which is vitalized by doing and growing, and she has the ability to inspire her friends to improve with her.
As First Counselor to Mrs. Williams during the seven and a half years of her presidency, Mrs. Knight was loyal, competent and dependable. Regular Executive and Board meetings were held each week, with often an extra session, but the weather was never too cold to keep her from coming all the way from Provo . to be in attendance.
Her sound judgment, her sympathetic understanding of human needs and her untiring devotion to Relief Society was a great strength to President Williams who loved her dearly. The bond of affection between these two great women was beautiful to see. President Williams’ voice was a real caress when she spoke the name “Jennie”.
In describing success, someone has said: “If the passing years have left you in their flight, new stores of wisdom, kindliness, tolerance, patience—that is success.” Jennie B. Knight has all these virtues—and more. She has added love and in return is loved by all who have been privileged to know her.
She has faith and a sincere testimony of the truthfulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith. Her faith has strengthened the testimony of others.
Few women have had the wide opportunity for service which Mrs. Knight has had, and few have been so well prepared for that service.
Jennie Brimhall and Inez Knight were the first lady missionaries, called and sent as such, to a foreign country. In addition to this experience, Mrs. Knight has visited most of the stakes and many wards and missions as General Board officer and member. It is a pleasure to visit a Relief Society after she has held a conference or convention. People invariably speak lovingly of her wisdom, her practical advice and her ability to adjust to any situation.
Mrs. Knight graduated from the Brigham Young University with high honors. Later, she taught in the Training School of her beloved B. Y. U. and also served as Dean of Women.
She is a life member of the National Council of Women. A few of the outstanding activities which have claimed her attention are: Stake President Y. W. M. I. A. of Taylor Stake; Stake President Y. W. M. I. A. of Utah Stake; Relief Society Board Member, Utah Stake; Governor Bamberger’s representative at a peace conference in Philadelphia; Vice President State Council of Defense, Woman’s Division, and a representative of the Council in Washington, D. C.; representative of the Relief Society at conventions of the National Council of Women upon several occasions, and as a delegate to the Quinquennial in Washington, D. C. she became acquainted with many noted foreign women. She was also a delegate to National Conferences of Social Workers of the United States.
With all of these interests—and many more—Jennie B. Knight is a model homemaker, an ideal wife and mother, an hospitable hostess and a trusted friend.
On January 18, 1899, Jennie Brimhall was married to Jesse William Knight who has wholeheartedly assisted his wife in all of her activities. Their two sons, Richard and Phillip, are married, and three adorable grandchildren now claim loving attention.
One wonders how a person can have so many virtues and abilities, how being gracious and doing right come, apparently, so easy. Back of most people with these great gifts are fine, wise parents. Jennie Brimhall was very fortunate in being born into the home of Dr. George PI. Brimhall and Alsina E. Wilkins Brimhall. Many instances of character training in Jennie’s young life are delightfully told by Inez Knight Allen in a tribute to “Jennie B.” in the November, 1928 issue of the Relief Society Magazine.
After eighteen years of loyal, devoted service to Relief Society as First Counselor to President Williams and member of the General Board of Relief Society, Mrs. Knight has asked for her release. President Grant approves of her request, and each member of the General Board reluctantly acquiesce.
The name of Jennie Brimhall Knight will be lovingly remembered in thousands of homes of Relief Society women. Their good wishes and their earnest prayers for her happiness will ever follow her. She has proven the Prophet Micah’s interpretation of real service:
“Only to do justly and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God."
"In Memoriam - Lucy Jane Brimhall Knight." Relief Society Magazine. June 1957. pg. 369-370.
In Memoriam – Lucy Jane Brimhall Knight
December 13, 1875 — March 31, 1957
LUCY Jane (Jennie) Brimhall Knight, beloved leader among women, and a former counselor in the general presidency of Relief Society, died at her home in Edgemont, Provo, Utah, March 31, 1957. She was a daughter of George H. Brimhall, former President of Brigham Young University, and Alsina Wilkins Brimhall. Pier husband, J. Will Knight, devoted Church worker and prominent in the industrial development of the West, died in March 1956. Two sons and ten brothers and sisters survive Sister Knight.
Interested in civic improvement and in education, Sister Knight supported with her time and means many worthy endeavors. She and her husband were generous patrons of Brigham Young University, and she was honored by B.Y.U. in 1951 as a distinguished alumnus. One of the women's dormitories was named in her honor in 1954. She was a member of the B.Y.U. Emeritus Club.
Sister Knight's service in the auxiliary organizations of the Church began in her young womanhood. While living in Canada, she was active in the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association and in the Sunday School.
She was appointed by President Heber J. Grant in 1921 as First Counselor to President Clarissa S. Williams in the general presidency of Relief Society. She acted in this position with devotion and gracious qualities of inspirational leadership. With the release of Sister Williams in 1928, Sister Knight, while relieved of her responsibilities in the general presidency, continued as a member of the general board until 1939. She was a competent administrator and a judicious and understanding friend of women. Blessed with fluency of expression and a beautiful speaking voice, she represented the general board on many occasions with distinction. She was a delegate to meetings of the National Council of Women and represented Relief Society at two national conferences on social work and attended many other important conventions and meetings.
Sister Knight served as matron in the Salt Lake Temple from 1944 to 1947 while her husband served in the temple presidency.
She will be long remembered as a lovely and capable woman in whose life the qualities of compassion, intelligence, and understanding were beautifully blended.
In Memoriam – Lucy Jane Brimhall Knight
December 13, 1875 — March 31, 1957
LUCY Jane (Jennie) Brimhall Knight, beloved leader among women, and a former counselor in the general presidency of Relief Society, died at her home in Edgemont, Provo, Utah, March 31, 1957. She was a daughter of George H. Brimhall, former President of Brigham Young University, and Alsina Wilkins Brimhall. Pier husband, J. Will Knight, devoted Church worker and prominent in the industrial development of the West, died in March 1956. Two sons and ten brothers and sisters survive Sister Knight.
Interested in civic improvement and in education, Sister Knight supported with her time and means many worthy endeavors. She and her husband were generous patrons of Brigham Young University, and she was honored by B.Y.U. in 1951 as a distinguished alumnus. One of the women's dormitories was named in her honor in 1954. She was a member of the B.Y.U. Emeritus Club.
Sister Knight's service in the auxiliary organizations of the Church began in her young womanhood. While living in Canada, she was active in the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association and in the Sunday School.
She was appointed by President Heber J. Grant in 1921 as First Counselor to President Clarissa S. Williams in the general presidency of Relief Society. She acted in this position with devotion and gracious qualities of inspirational leadership. With the release of Sister Williams in 1928, Sister Knight, while relieved of her responsibilities in the general presidency, continued as a member of the general board until 1939. She was a competent administrator and a judicious and understanding friend of women. Blessed with fluency of expression and a beautiful speaking voice, she represented the general board on many occasions with distinction. She was a delegate to meetings of the National Council of Women and represented Relief Society at two national conferences on social work and attended many other important conventions and meetings.
Sister Knight served as matron in the Salt Lake Temple from 1944 to 1947 while her husband served in the temple presidency.
She will be long remembered as a lovely and capable woman in whose life the qualities of compassion, intelligence, and understanding were beautifully blended.