John Henry Smith
Born: 18 September 1848
Called to Quorum of the Twelve: 27 October 1880
Called as Second Counselor in the First Presidency: 7 April 1910 (Joseph F. Smith)
Died: 13 October 1911
Called to Quorum of the Twelve: 27 October 1880
Called as Second Counselor in the First Presidency: 7 April 1910 (Joseph F. Smith)
Died: 13 October 1911
Biographical Articles
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 1
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 3
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 4
Juvenile Instructor, 1 June 1900, Lives of Our Leaders - The Apostles: John Henry Smith
Juvenile Instructor, 1 September 1901, Saved from Drowning Through a Father's Prayer
Young Woman's Journal, June 1903, Apostle John Henry Smith
Juvenile Instructor, May 1910, President John Henry Smith
Improvement Era, November 1911, Some of the Activities of President John Henry Smith
Improvement Era, November 1911, In Memoriam, John Henry Smith
Improvement Era, November 1911, John Henry Smith
Improvement Era, November 1911, Tribute to John Henry Smith
Juvenile Instructor, November 1911, President John Henry Smith
Young Woman's Journal, November 1911, President John Henry Smith
Young Woman's Journal, November 1911, President John Henry Smith
Juvenile Instructor, October 1921, Stepping Stones
My own research and opinion
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 3
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 4
Juvenile Instructor, 1 June 1900, Lives of Our Leaders - The Apostles: John Henry Smith
Juvenile Instructor, 1 September 1901, Saved from Drowning Through a Father's Prayer
Young Woman's Journal, June 1903, Apostle John Henry Smith
Juvenile Instructor, May 1910, President John Henry Smith
Improvement Era, November 1911, Some of the Activities of President John Henry Smith
Improvement Era, November 1911, In Memoriam, John Henry Smith
Improvement Era, November 1911, John Henry Smith
Improvement Era, November 1911, Tribute to John Henry Smith
Juvenile Instructor, November 1911, President John Henry Smith
Young Woman's Journal, November 1911, President John Henry Smith
Young Woman's Journal, November 1911, President John Henry Smith
Juvenile Instructor, October 1921, Stepping Stones
My own research and opinion
Jenson, Andrew. "Smith, John Henry." Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 1. pg. 141-144.
SMITH, John Henry, a member of the Council of Twelve Apostles since 1880, is the son of Pres. Geo. A. Smith and Sarah Ann Libby, and was born at Carbunca, near Kanesville (now Council Bluffs), Pottawattamie county, Iowa, Sept. 18, 1848. His grandfather, Patriarch John Smith, was one of the seven sons of Asahel and Mary Smith. His mother was the daughter of Nathaniel Libby (and Tirzah Lord), who was the son of Captain Charles Libby (and Sarah Pray), who was the son of Charles Libby (and Abigail Hilton), who was the son of Deacon Benjamin Libby (and Sarah Stone), who was the son of John Libby and Agnes. John was the son of John Libby, the immigrant, who was born in England, about the year 1602, came to America in 1630, and was employed for a number of years at Scarborough, Maine. At the time of John Henry's birth his parents were fleeing before the bigotry and intolerance of their countrymen. In 1847 his father came with the Pioneers to Great Salt Lake valley, returned to the Missouri river the same fall, and went to work to prepare for the removal of his family to Utah. June 22, 1849, he started with his family for his new home in the mountains and reached Salt Lake City, Oct. 27, 1849. John Henry's mother, who had been an in valid for years, died June 12, 1851, of consumption. The boy was then put into the care of his mother's sister, Hannah Maria, who was also his father's wife. To her he owes very largely the success he has attained so far in life. She was an industrious, high-spirited woman, ever ambitious to be advancing in everything that was good. Her faith in the gospel was as firm as the rocks. At that time she had a son of her own, Charles Warren, four months younger than the subject of this sketch. The father was absent from home when John Henry's mother died. In July, 1852, his father moved his wives Lucy and Hannah to Provo, and here John Henry lived under the watchcare of two good Christian mothers, who both tried her best to guard him and keep him in the path of honor. His father's family were at that time widely scattered, some resided in Salt Lake City others in Provo, and some in Parowan. The head of the family spent but a very small portion of his time at home, the duties of his Apostleship demanding almost his entire attention. The schools in these days were poor, but an effort was made to give each child as good an education as possible. Sept. 18, 1856, John Henry was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by his father. His grandfather. Patriarch John Smith, gave him an inspired patriarchal blessing, Jan. 18, 1852, which has been the guiding star of his subsequent life. He attended school at Provo and Salt Lake City, and obtained a moderately good education for the times. While residing at Provo, he had a very miraculous escape from drowning in the Provo river during the very high water of 1862. On June 8th, of that year, he, together with Thomas and George M. Brown, were crossing the river in a small boat which capsized; John Henry became entangled in some driftwood and was kept under water for some time. People who were standing on the shore had given him up for lost, when suddenly an unseen power seemed to lift him bodily onto the bank. It was afterwards learned that at that very time his father had become forcibly impressed with the feeling that his son was in extreme danger, and he went and robed himself in his Priestly apparel and prayed the Lord to save his son, which was done in the manner named. Oct. 20, 1866, John Henry married Sarah Farr, daughter of Lorin Farr and Nancy Chase, of Ogden. After their marriage the young couple moved to Provo, where John Henry worked as telegraph operator. Some time during the summer of 1867 he was chosen by Bishop W. A. Follet, in connection with H. C. Rodgers, to be his counselor, and aid him in the government of the Fourth Ward, Provo. He remained in this position until the time the Pacific Railroad was nearly completed, when he left Provo and hired out to Benson, Farr and West, aiding them in the building of two hundred miles of the Central Pacific Railway. When this work was completed, he was offered a good situation in Sacramento, Cal., by Governor Leland Stanford, but his father requested him to come home to Salt Lake City and labor with them. This he did and spent a number of years in his employ. During the session of the Territorial legislature of 1872, John Henry was assistant clerk of the house of representatives; he also acted as assistant clerk in the Constitutional convention. Among the members were George Q. Cannon, Frank Fuller, Thomas Fitch and many others of all shades of faith. A constitution was drafted and adopted, having a minority representation clause in it. John Henry traveled in various parts of the Territory with his father, and by this means became acquainted with many people. He also became intimate with Pres. Brigham Young and asked him many questions in regard to Church government. Among other things Pres. Young told him that it was the right of the senior Apostle (in order of ordination) to preside in case of his (Pres. Young's) death, but no man that had ever faltered or turned back could lead. At the general conference of the Church held in May, 1874, John Henry was called to go on a mission to Europe; his father gave him a blessing and Apostle John Taylor set him apart for his mission. He was also ordained a Seventy by Pres. Joseph Young, and set apart to preside as om^ of the counsel over the 65th Quorum of Seventies. In the latter capacity he, however, never acted, as some mistake had been made, the quorum being already full. He left Ogden to fulfil his. mission June 29, 1874, and reached New York city July 4th. He paid a visit to his uncles (mother's brothers) in New Hampshire. They received him kindly. July 14, 1874, in company with David McKenzie and L. John Nuttall, he sailed from New York in the steamship "Idaho," and landed at Liverpool July 26th. He visited a few days with his cousin, Pres. Joseph F. Smith, and was appointed to labor in the Birmingham conference, under the direction of Elder Richard V. Morris. Subsequently he visited most of the conferences in Great Britain, and in 1875, in company with Pres. Joseph F. Smith and other Elders, visited Denmark, Germany, Switzerland and France. Hie. father being taken very sick, John Henry was ordered home in July, 1875. He arrived in time to spend fifteen days at his father's bedside, who died Sept. 1, 1875. After this John Henry was in the employ of the Utah Central Railway Company for several years. Nov. 22, 1875, he was ordained a High Priest and Bishop by Pres. Brigham Young, Geo. Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith, Pres. Young being mouth, ana set apart to preside over the Seventeenth Ward of Salt Lake City. In this position he was sustained by the people of the Ward, and enjoyed his labors very much. At the city election in February, 1876, he was elected a member of the city council from the Third Precinct. He was re-elected twice and served six years altogether. In August, 1882, he was elected a member of the Territorial legislature. During the excitement attending the passage of the first Edmunds law, he and Moses Thatcher were sent to Washington, D. C, to labor with Elder George Q. Cannon, using their influence against the passage of that law. They found it impossible to approach public men, owing to the excitement, and after about a month's sojourn at the capital the> returned home. In April, 1877, John Henry yielded obedience to the principle of plural marriage by marrying Josephine Groesbeck, a daughter of Elder Nicholas Groesbeck. He was ordained an Apostle Oct. 27, 1880, President Woodruff being mouth, in answer to prayer. After the October conference in 1882, he was sent to preside over the European Mission, and was away from home two years and five months, during which time he traveled extensively in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. He also visited the Isle of Man, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, France, Germany, Switzerland and Italy. Since his return from this mission abroad, and during the excitement incident to the execution of the Edmunds law, he has labored incessantly among the Saints in Utah and surrounding States and Territories. He was arrested in July, 1885, on the charge of unlawful cohabitation, and was dis charged by the Commissioner. In connection with Apostle John W. Taylor he organized the Uintah Stake of Zion, May 9, 1897; since then he has assisted in the organization of a number of other Stakes and Wards. Besides at tending to his ecclesiastical duties. Elder Smith has figured prominently in the political affairs of the State. In February, 1876, he was elected a member of the Salt Lake City council. Being re-elected twice, he served for six years in the capacity of councilman. In August, 1881, he was elected a member of the Territorial legislature. When the People's party and the Liberals divided upon national political lines he was one of the first and foremost in advocating the principles of Republicanism in the Territory, and ever since then has been an active Republican in politics. He was president of the convention that formed the constitution under which Utah was admitted as a State of the Union. Since his call to the Apostleship, EIder Smith has devoted practically the whole of his time to public duties. Except at times when upon missions abroad, he has traveled almost constantly among the Stakes of Zion, attending conferences, instructing and encouraging the Saints, organizing and setting in order Stakes and Wards, etc. He has visited every Stake of Zion, and many of them several times over. In 1899, he also made a tour of the Southern States Mission, doing considerable preaching on the way. A number of times he has attended as a delegate the sessions of the Irrigation and the Trans-Mississippi Congresses. The Trans-Mississippi Congress of April, 1900, was held in Houston, Texas. After its adjournment he went, with Pres. George Q. Cannon and others, to the City of Mexico. The visit was of deep interest to him, and he was much impressed with what he witnessed in our sister republic. His time being so devoted to public affairs. Apostle Smith has not engaged personally to any great extent in business enterprises, though he has ability in that line, and is connect ed with a number of the leading business institutions of the State, as an officer or director. By nature and training he is most eminently qualified for public duties. He has a good knowledge of human character and an ex tensive acquaintance with prominent men, not only in his own State, but throughout the nation. These qualifications, and above all. his remarkable faculty for making friends wherever he goes, fit him admirably for the position and labors that have fallen to his lot. The character of John Henry Smith is a fine study for every young man; and from it one can gain valuable lessons. It requires no very close acquaintance to understand his disposition, for in it there is no element of deceit or artfulness. The motives by which he is actuated may be read in his open countenance and easy, natural and unassuming manner. He is straightforward in all his actions—never being guilty of any double-dealing—and is always outspoken and candid in expressing his sentiments. He possesses courage of the highest type—a fearlessness born of the assurance that he is in the right. These qualities impress all people with whom he comes in contact that he is sincere in his convictions, whether or not they agree with his ideas. He is of a happy disposition, always hopeful, and he takes the most cheerful view of conditions that may confront him, no matter how discouraging the aspect may be. He is quick to discern and appreciate the good qualities of others, is ever thoughtful regarding their welfare, and is broadminded in his views. He possesses the same good qualities of heart as of mind, and he is liberal almost to a fault. By his continual upright cour.se in life he has established a credit for integrity and honesty, without which no man can expect to gain and retain the confidence of his fellows, no matter how brilliant his other attainment may be. As a public speaker. Apostle Smith is convincing, forceful and eloquent. His eloquence is that of sincere earnestness, in private conversation he displays the same earnestness, and is always interesting and entertaining. But the great secret of his influence with man kind is his love for them. The power that some men, more than others, seem to possess and exert over their fellows —frequently even against the will of the latter—is sometimes called personal magnetism. The force of attraction possessed by Apostle Smith is nothing less than the magnetism of pure love for humanity. (See also "Southern. Star," Vol. 2, n. 421; "Juvenile Instructor." Vol. 35, p. 321.)
SMITH, John Henry, a member of the Council of Twelve Apostles since 1880, is the son of Pres. Geo. A. Smith and Sarah Ann Libby, and was born at Carbunca, near Kanesville (now Council Bluffs), Pottawattamie county, Iowa, Sept. 18, 1848. His grandfather, Patriarch John Smith, was one of the seven sons of Asahel and Mary Smith. His mother was the daughter of Nathaniel Libby (and Tirzah Lord), who was the son of Captain Charles Libby (and Sarah Pray), who was the son of Charles Libby (and Abigail Hilton), who was the son of Deacon Benjamin Libby (and Sarah Stone), who was the son of John Libby and Agnes. John was the son of John Libby, the immigrant, who was born in England, about the year 1602, came to America in 1630, and was employed for a number of years at Scarborough, Maine. At the time of John Henry's birth his parents were fleeing before the bigotry and intolerance of their countrymen. In 1847 his father came with the Pioneers to Great Salt Lake valley, returned to the Missouri river the same fall, and went to work to prepare for the removal of his family to Utah. June 22, 1849, he started with his family for his new home in the mountains and reached Salt Lake City, Oct. 27, 1849. John Henry's mother, who had been an in valid for years, died June 12, 1851, of consumption. The boy was then put into the care of his mother's sister, Hannah Maria, who was also his father's wife. To her he owes very largely the success he has attained so far in life. She was an industrious, high-spirited woman, ever ambitious to be advancing in everything that was good. Her faith in the gospel was as firm as the rocks. At that time she had a son of her own, Charles Warren, four months younger than the subject of this sketch. The father was absent from home when John Henry's mother died. In July, 1852, his father moved his wives Lucy and Hannah to Provo, and here John Henry lived under the watchcare of two good Christian mothers, who both tried her best to guard him and keep him in the path of honor. His father's family were at that time widely scattered, some resided in Salt Lake City others in Provo, and some in Parowan. The head of the family spent but a very small portion of his time at home, the duties of his Apostleship demanding almost his entire attention. The schools in these days were poor, but an effort was made to give each child as good an education as possible. Sept. 18, 1856, John Henry was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by his father. His grandfather. Patriarch John Smith, gave him an inspired patriarchal blessing, Jan. 18, 1852, which has been the guiding star of his subsequent life. He attended school at Provo and Salt Lake City, and obtained a moderately good education for the times. While residing at Provo, he had a very miraculous escape from drowning in the Provo river during the very high water of 1862. On June 8th, of that year, he, together with Thomas and George M. Brown, were crossing the river in a small boat which capsized; John Henry became entangled in some driftwood and was kept under water for some time. People who were standing on the shore had given him up for lost, when suddenly an unseen power seemed to lift him bodily onto the bank. It was afterwards learned that at that very time his father had become forcibly impressed with the feeling that his son was in extreme danger, and he went and robed himself in his Priestly apparel and prayed the Lord to save his son, which was done in the manner named. Oct. 20, 1866, John Henry married Sarah Farr, daughter of Lorin Farr and Nancy Chase, of Ogden. After their marriage the young couple moved to Provo, where John Henry worked as telegraph operator. Some time during the summer of 1867 he was chosen by Bishop W. A. Follet, in connection with H. C. Rodgers, to be his counselor, and aid him in the government of the Fourth Ward, Provo. He remained in this position until the time the Pacific Railroad was nearly completed, when he left Provo and hired out to Benson, Farr and West, aiding them in the building of two hundred miles of the Central Pacific Railway. When this work was completed, he was offered a good situation in Sacramento, Cal., by Governor Leland Stanford, but his father requested him to come home to Salt Lake City and labor with them. This he did and spent a number of years in his employ. During the session of the Territorial legislature of 1872, John Henry was assistant clerk of the house of representatives; he also acted as assistant clerk in the Constitutional convention. Among the members were George Q. Cannon, Frank Fuller, Thomas Fitch and many others of all shades of faith. A constitution was drafted and adopted, having a minority representation clause in it. John Henry traveled in various parts of the Territory with his father, and by this means became acquainted with many people. He also became intimate with Pres. Brigham Young and asked him many questions in regard to Church government. Among other things Pres. Young told him that it was the right of the senior Apostle (in order of ordination) to preside in case of his (Pres. Young's) death, but no man that had ever faltered or turned back could lead. At the general conference of the Church held in May, 1874, John Henry was called to go on a mission to Europe; his father gave him a blessing and Apostle John Taylor set him apart for his mission. He was also ordained a Seventy by Pres. Joseph Young, and set apart to preside as om^ of the counsel over the 65th Quorum of Seventies. In the latter capacity he, however, never acted, as some mistake had been made, the quorum being already full. He left Ogden to fulfil his. mission June 29, 1874, and reached New York city July 4th. He paid a visit to his uncles (mother's brothers) in New Hampshire. They received him kindly. July 14, 1874, in company with David McKenzie and L. John Nuttall, he sailed from New York in the steamship "Idaho," and landed at Liverpool July 26th. He visited a few days with his cousin, Pres. Joseph F. Smith, and was appointed to labor in the Birmingham conference, under the direction of Elder Richard V. Morris. Subsequently he visited most of the conferences in Great Britain, and in 1875, in company with Pres. Joseph F. Smith and other Elders, visited Denmark, Germany, Switzerland and France. Hie. father being taken very sick, John Henry was ordered home in July, 1875. He arrived in time to spend fifteen days at his father's bedside, who died Sept. 1, 1875. After this John Henry was in the employ of the Utah Central Railway Company for several years. Nov. 22, 1875, he was ordained a High Priest and Bishop by Pres. Brigham Young, Geo. Q. Cannon and Joseph F. Smith, Pres. Young being mouth, ana set apart to preside over the Seventeenth Ward of Salt Lake City. In this position he was sustained by the people of the Ward, and enjoyed his labors very much. At the city election in February, 1876, he was elected a member of the city council from the Third Precinct. He was re-elected twice and served six years altogether. In August, 1882, he was elected a member of the Territorial legislature. During the excitement attending the passage of the first Edmunds law, he and Moses Thatcher were sent to Washington, D. C, to labor with Elder George Q. Cannon, using their influence against the passage of that law. They found it impossible to approach public men, owing to the excitement, and after about a month's sojourn at the capital the> returned home. In April, 1877, John Henry yielded obedience to the principle of plural marriage by marrying Josephine Groesbeck, a daughter of Elder Nicholas Groesbeck. He was ordained an Apostle Oct. 27, 1880, President Woodruff being mouth, in answer to prayer. After the October conference in 1882, he was sent to preside over the European Mission, and was away from home two years and five months, during which time he traveled extensively in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. He also visited the Isle of Man, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, France, Germany, Switzerland and Italy. Since his return from this mission abroad, and during the excitement incident to the execution of the Edmunds law, he has labored incessantly among the Saints in Utah and surrounding States and Territories. He was arrested in July, 1885, on the charge of unlawful cohabitation, and was dis charged by the Commissioner. In connection with Apostle John W. Taylor he organized the Uintah Stake of Zion, May 9, 1897; since then he has assisted in the organization of a number of other Stakes and Wards. Besides at tending to his ecclesiastical duties. Elder Smith has figured prominently in the political affairs of the State. In February, 1876, he was elected a member of the Salt Lake City council. Being re-elected twice, he served for six years in the capacity of councilman. In August, 1881, he was elected a member of the Territorial legislature. When the People's party and the Liberals divided upon national political lines he was one of the first and foremost in advocating the principles of Republicanism in the Territory, and ever since then has been an active Republican in politics. He was president of the convention that formed the constitution under which Utah was admitted as a State of the Union. Since his call to the Apostleship, EIder Smith has devoted practically the whole of his time to public duties. Except at times when upon missions abroad, he has traveled almost constantly among the Stakes of Zion, attending conferences, instructing and encouraging the Saints, organizing and setting in order Stakes and Wards, etc. He has visited every Stake of Zion, and many of them several times over. In 1899, he also made a tour of the Southern States Mission, doing considerable preaching on the way. A number of times he has attended as a delegate the sessions of the Irrigation and the Trans-Mississippi Congresses. The Trans-Mississippi Congress of April, 1900, was held in Houston, Texas. After its adjournment he went, with Pres. George Q. Cannon and others, to the City of Mexico. The visit was of deep interest to him, and he was much impressed with what he witnessed in our sister republic. His time being so devoted to public affairs. Apostle Smith has not engaged personally to any great extent in business enterprises, though he has ability in that line, and is connect ed with a number of the leading business institutions of the State, as an officer or director. By nature and training he is most eminently qualified for public duties. He has a good knowledge of human character and an ex tensive acquaintance with prominent men, not only in his own State, but throughout the nation. These qualifications, and above all. his remarkable faculty for making friends wherever he goes, fit him admirably for the position and labors that have fallen to his lot. The character of John Henry Smith is a fine study for every young man; and from it one can gain valuable lessons. It requires no very close acquaintance to understand his disposition, for in it there is no element of deceit or artfulness. The motives by which he is actuated may be read in his open countenance and easy, natural and unassuming manner. He is straightforward in all his actions—never being guilty of any double-dealing—and is always outspoken and candid in expressing his sentiments. He possesses courage of the highest type—a fearlessness born of the assurance that he is in the right. These qualities impress all people with whom he comes in contact that he is sincere in his convictions, whether or not they agree with his ideas. He is of a happy disposition, always hopeful, and he takes the most cheerful view of conditions that may confront him, no matter how discouraging the aspect may be. He is quick to discern and appreciate the good qualities of others, is ever thoughtful regarding their welfare, and is broadminded in his views. He possesses the same good qualities of heart as of mind, and he is liberal almost to a fault. By his continual upright cour.se in life he has established a credit for integrity and honesty, without which no man can expect to gain and retain the confidence of his fellows, no matter how brilliant his other attainment may be. As a public speaker. Apostle Smith is convincing, forceful and eloquent. His eloquence is that of sincere earnestness, in private conversation he displays the same earnestness, and is always interesting and entertaining. But the great secret of his influence with man kind is his love for them. The power that some men, more than others, seem to possess and exert over their fellows —frequently even against the will of the latter—is sometimes called personal magnetism. The force of attraction possessed by Apostle Smith is nothing less than the magnetism of pure love for humanity. (See also "Southern. Star," Vol. 2, n. 421; "Juvenile Instructor." Vol. 35, p. 321.)
Jenson, Andrew. "Smith, John Henry." Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 3. pg. 780-781.
SMITH, John Henry, a member of the Council of Twelve Apostles (continued from Vol. 1:141). John Henry Smith continued his labors in the various Stakes of Zion, assisting in the organization of new Stakes and Wards, ever bringing a good influence to bear upon all those with whom he associated. In 1904 he was summoned to Washington, D. C, as a witness before the Senate Committee on Privileges and Elections in the case of Senator Reed Smoot. In December, 1905, he accompanied Pres. Joseph F. Smith and others to Vermont, taking part in the services when the monument erected in honor of the Prophet Joseph Smith was dedicated. When Pres. Joseph F. Smith (after the death of Counselor John R. Winder), selected a new counselor, John Henry Smith was chosen and set apart as second counselor in April, 1910. The duties pertaining to this high and holy office were faithfully discharged by Brother Smith until the time of his death, which occurred in Salt Lake City Oct. 13, 1911. The "Deseret Evening News," at the time of his demise, commented as follows, in an editorial: "To say that it was a great shock to this community to hear of the sudden departure from this sphere of action of Pres. John Henry Smith is to express but feebly the general sentiment. For the summons came without previous warning. He seemed so robust and strong, so active and full of vitality, and his presence in the midst of his loving family, and in the councils of the Church, seemed to be so much needed, that one naturally hoped and expected for him many more years of usefulness in this life. It is difficult to reconcile oneself to the thought that President John Henry Smith, the tender husband and father, the wise counselor, the genial friend, the delightful pulpit and platform orator, the strong defender of the truth, the faithful witness and messenger of the Master, has left us. But such Is the decree of Him whose servant he was. He has gone to mingle with his brethren behind the veil and to continue his work in another sphere, for the redemption of the world. No doubt, he is needed there. He lives though he has departed. * * President John Henry Smith has done a good work for the Master. He has served faithfully and finished his mission. The crown of victory is his."
SMITH, John Henry, a member of the Council of Twelve Apostles (continued from Vol. 1:141). John Henry Smith continued his labors in the various Stakes of Zion, assisting in the organization of new Stakes and Wards, ever bringing a good influence to bear upon all those with whom he associated. In 1904 he was summoned to Washington, D. C, as a witness before the Senate Committee on Privileges and Elections in the case of Senator Reed Smoot. In December, 1905, he accompanied Pres. Joseph F. Smith and others to Vermont, taking part in the services when the monument erected in honor of the Prophet Joseph Smith was dedicated. When Pres. Joseph F. Smith (after the death of Counselor John R. Winder), selected a new counselor, John Henry Smith was chosen and set apart as second counselor in April, 1910. The duties pertaining to this high and holy office were faithfully discharged by Brother Smith until the time of his death, which occurred in Salt Lake City Oct. 13, 1911. The "Deseret Evening News," at the time of his demise, commented as follows, in an editorial: "To say that it was a great shock to this community to hear of the sudden departure from this sphere of action of Pres. John Henry Smith is to express but feebly the general sentiment. For the summons came without previous warning. He seemed so robust and strong, so active and full of vitality, and his presence in the midst of his loving family, and in the councils of the Church, seemed to be so much needed, that one naturally hoped and expected for him many more years of usefulness in this life. It is difficult to reconcile oneself to the thought that President John Henry Smith, the tender husband and father, the wise counselor, the genial friend, the delightful pulpit and platform orator, the strong defender of the truth, the faithful witness and messenger of the Master, has left us. But such Is the decree of Him whose servant he was. He has gone to mingle with his brethren behind the veil and to continue his work in another sphere, for the redemption of the world. No doubt, he is needed there. He lives though he has departed. * * President John Henry Smith has done a good work for the Master. He has served faithfully and finished his mission. The crown of victory is his."
Jenson, Andrew. "Smith, John Henry." Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 4. pg. 246, 319.
SMITH, John Henry, a member of the General Board of Y. M. M. I. A. from 1898 to 1911, died Oct. 13, 1911. (See Biographical Encyclopedia, Vol. 1, p. 141, and Vol. 3, p. 780.)
SMITH, John Henry, president of the British Mission from 1882 to 1885. (See Bio. Ency., Vol. 1, p. 141, and Vol. 3, p. 780.)
SMITH, John Henry, a member of the General Board of Y. M. M. I. A. from 1898 to 1911, died Oct. 13, 1911. (See Biographical Encyclopedia, Vol. 1, p. 141, and Vol. 3, p. 780.)
SMITH, John Henry, president of the British Mission from 1882 to 1885. (See Bio. Ency., Vol. 1, p. 141, and Vol. 3, p. 780.)
Parry, Edwin F. "Lives of Our Leaders - The Apostles: John Henry Smith." Juvenile Instructor. 1 June 1900. pg. 320-325.
LIVES OF OUR LEADERS—THE APOSTLES. JOHN HENRY SMITH. ON their journey westward from Nauvoo, Illinois, the exiled Saints formed temporary resting places on the Missouri River. A town built of log cabins, known as Winter Quarters, sprang up on the west bank, and a place which the Saints named Kanesville (now called Council Bluffs) was built on the east bank of the river. It was at Carbunca, near Kanesville, where the subject of this sketch first saw the light. He was born on the 18th of September, 1848. His father, the late President George A. Smith, had accompanied President Brigham Young and the first company of pioneers to the Great Salt Lake Valley the year before, and with some of them had also returned, a few weeks later, to the Missouri River. Upon his arrival there he proceeded to make preparations for the removal of his family to the newly-found gathering place in the valleys of the west. But it was not until the summer of 1849 that George A. Smith and his family began their journey westward from the Missouri; and the child John Henry was just a little over a year old when he arrived with his parents in Salt Lake City. Less than two years after reaching the valley (on June 12, 1851) the boy's mother, Sarah Ann Libby, died of consumption. She had been an invalid for several years. After her death, John Henry, who was her only child, was placed in the care of his mother's sister, Hannah Maria, who was also one of his father's wives. She had a son of her own, Charles Warren, only a few months younger than the other boy, and the two were raised together; and as they grew up they became united by a most enduring brotherly affection. It is pleasing to note that time has not broken this attachment, though circumstances of late years have separated them more from each other's society than when they were boys. The many public duties of the father kept him away from home much of his time; besides, his family became widely separated a few years after their entrance into the valley. Some were left to reside in Salt Lake City, others were located in Parowan, while his wives Lucy and Hannah were, during the summer of 1852, removed to Provo, at which place the two brothers spent their early boyhood days. Though deprived of a mother's care at such a tender age, John Henry was not neglected. His aunt was as good and true a mother to him as one could be, and he received the same care and attention from her as did her own son. To her patient teaching and training and constant watchcare and solicitude he attributes, to a great extent, the success he has thus far attained in life. In making this acknowledgement concerning his mother's potent influence over him for good he but expresses the heart-sentiment of many a man who has become noted for worthy deeds. In truth it may be said that all really great and good men are largely indebted to their mothers for what they may have attained in true excellence. The boyhood of John Henry was spent in much the same way as that of other Utah lads of his time. One of his early occupations was that of herding cattle on the Provo bench and in the «bottoms,» along the shore of the Utah Lake. He was a large and powerful boy for his age, and was always considered by other boys as a genial, good-natured companion, full of life and fun. For several years after the first settlement of Provo the Indians of the vicinity were from time to time exceedingly troublesome, and though John Henry was but a youth at that period, he had some adventures with them. At one time he was shot at by a redskin, but escaped without injury. When he was in his fourteenth year he came very near being drowned in the Provo River, but was saved in a miraculous manner. This circumstance took place on June 8, 1862, when he in company with Thomas and George M. Brown, attempted to cross that stream in a small boat. It was at a time when the water was very high and turbulent. The boat capsized in the stream and John Henry became entangled in some driftwood, and remained under water for some time. Those standing on the shore who witnessed the mishap feared he was lost, owing to the length of time he remained beneath the water. Suddenly, however, by some unseen power he was lifted onto the bank of the river and was rescued. It was subsequently learned that at the time when this accident happened his father, who was then in Salt Lake City, had been so forcibly impressed that his son was in extreme danger that he prayed to the Lord to save the boy, and his prayer was answered in the remarkable way just mentioned. As John Henry grew older, he spent part of his time in Salt Lake City, going to the capital to attend school. The educational facilities of the times were meagre compared with what they are today, but his parents sought to give him all the education that could be acquired from the educational institutions then existing in the Territory. As this sketch is written especially for the benefit of the youth, it may be profitable, before passing on from the consideration of his boyhood days, to mention some of the agencies that influenced his youthful mind and helped him to direct his course aright in life. When John Henry was but a child, his grandfather, John Smith, who was at that time Patriarch of the Church, gave him an inspired patriarchal blessing in which his life was marked out. This has ever been to him a guide and an incentive to noble action. Another such incentive was a remark once made to him by Col. Thomas L. Kane. When a young man he called upon that distinguished gentleman — that ever true and staunch friend of the Latter-day Saints — and in the course of the interview Col. Kane said to him, in such an impressive way that he could not forget it: «Young man, I trust that you will ever remember that the best blood of the nineteenth century flows in your veins." This was an appeal to his patriotism that had a lasting impression for good upon the young man. The idea conveyed in the expression— that the founders of Utah were of the noblest and strongest characters of the century—should awaken within all their children and grandchildren, as well as the youth of Zion generally, a determination to maintain and perpetuate the good name of their fathers. John Henry Smith entered the matrimonial state at what today would be considered an early age. At eighteen he married Miss Sarah Farr, daughter of the Hon. Lorin Farr, of Ogden, a highly estimable lady in every respect, who has ever proven a true and devoted helpmate to her husband. Ten years later he married again, taking to wife Josephine Groesbeck, a daughter of the late Elder Nicholas Groesbeck. It may be here stated that Elder Smith's married life has been one of continued happiness. It is not saying too much to add that his is indeed a model Christian home. Within it peace, happiness and love abound. Therein the parents receive the honor, respect and affection due their position; and the children are governed with tender consideration, gentleness and patience. After their marriage, the youthful couple first made their home in Provo, where the husband was employed as a telegraph operator. While residing there he was chosen as a counselor to Bishop W. A. Follett of the Fourth Ward of that town. When the transcontinental railway was nearing completion, he left Provo and engaged with Messrs. Benson, Farr & West, assisting them in the building of two hundred miles of the Central Pacific Railway, for which they had taken a contract. Upon the completion of this labor Governor Leland Stanford of California offered the young man a good position in Sacramento. This he did not accept, as his father desired him to return to Salt Lake City and labor with him, and he complied with his father's wish. Frequently accompanying his father in his travels through the Territory, John Henry, as he is still familiarly called, became acquainted with many people, and especially with prominent men of the community. This privilege which he enjoyed afforded him an opportunity to acquire an education that is not to be obtained from books or in colleges. Being closely associated with men of great minds, such as Brigham Young and other Church leaders, he could study their lives and discover for himself the secrets of their excellence of character, and adopt in his own life many of the traits observable in their conduct. That he profited by this association is evidenced by his own nobleness of mind and heart. At the session of the Territorial legislature of 1872 John Henry Smith was assistant clerk of the house of representatives. He was also assistant clerk of the constitutional convention held that same year. In May, 1874, he was called to fill a mission to Europe, being set apart for the purpose by Apostle John Taylor. Leaving for this mission on June 29th, he reached New York July 4th. Before embarking for Liverpool, England, he paid a short visit to his mother's brothers, who resided in New Hampshire. He arrived in England July 26th. At that time his cousin, President Joseph F. Smith, was presiding over the European Mission, and assigned him to labor as a traveling Elder in the Birmingham Conference, under the direction of Elder Richard V. Morris. While upon this mission he visited most of the conferences in Great Britain, and also, in company with President Joseph F. Smith, Elder F. M. Lyman and others, visited Denmark, Germany, Switzerland and France. On account of his father's sickness he was called home a year after his arrival in England, and reached Salt Lake City in time to spend some fifteen days at his father's bedside previous to the latter's death, which occurred September 1, 1875. On the 22nd of November of that same year he was called and set apart as Bishop of the Seventeenth Ward of Salt Lake City. This position he filled for nearly five years. During this period he was employed by the Utah Central Railway Company. At the general conference of the Church held in October, 1880, there was a reorganization of the First Presidency of the Church, and at that time Elders Francis M. Lyman and John Henry Smith were called to fill vacancies in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. These two brethren were ordained Apostles on the 27th of that same month. Just before their ordination, Elder Smith felt a desire to receive a testimony or manifestation that his call to the apostleship was from the Lord. To satisfy this desire he then and there offered up a silent prayer asking that, if such were the case, it might fall to the lot of President Wilford Woodruff to ordain him to that calling. He said nothing about this to any of the brethren present, nor did he know then who would ordain him. It transpired, however, that President Woodruff was chosen to be mouth in his ordination, and he accepted this fact as a direct answer to his prayer and an evidence that the Lord had chosen him. In the early part of 1882, when the Edmunds anti-polygamy bill was before Congress, Apostles John Henry Smith and Moses Thatcher were sent to Washington to labor in connection with Utah's Delegate, Hon. George Q. Cannon, to prevent the passage of that bill. Upon two subsequent occasions, Apostle Smith has been to Washington in the interest of the people of Utah. In 1892 he went to the capital to labor for the admission of Utah as a State; and in the early part of the present year he went there to aid in modifying the sentiments of leading men in regard to the Latter-day Saints. In October, 1882, Apostle Smith was called to preside over the European Mission. While upon this mission he visited the various conferences in that land, and also traveled some in France and Italy. He was absent from home upon this occasion for twenty-nine months. At the time of his return, arrests and prosecutions under the Edmunds antipolygamy law were being vigorously carried on. He was arrested upon the prevailing charge—that of unlawful cohabitation —but was discharged on account of lack of evidence. Besides attending to his ecclesiastical duties, Apostle Smith has figured prominently in the political affairs of the State. In February, 1876, he. was elected a member of the Salt Lake City Council. Being re-elected twice, he served for six years in the capacity of a councilman. In August, 1881, he was elected a member of the Territorial Legislature. When the People's Party and the Liberals divided upon national political lines he was one of the first and foremost in advocating the principles of Republicanism in the Territory, and ever since he has been an active Republican in politics. He was president of the convention that formed the constitution under which Utah was admitted as a State of the Union. Since his call to the Apostleship, Elder Smith has devoted practically the whole of his time to public duties. Except at times when upon missions abroad, he has traveled almost constantly among the stakes of Zion, attending conferences, instructing and encouraging the Saints, organizing and setting in order stakes and wards, etc. He has visited every stake of Zion, and many of them several times over. In 1899, he also made a tour of the Southern States Mission, doing considerable preaching on the way. A number of times he has attended as a delegate the sessions of the Irrigation and the Trans-Mississippi Congresses. The last Trans-Mississippi Congress was held in Houston, Texas, in April, 1900. After its adjournment he went, with President George Q. Cannon and others, to the City of Mexico. This visit was of deep interest to him, and he was much impressed with what he witnessed in our sister republic. His time being so devoted to public affairs, Apostle Smith has not engaged personally to any great extent in business enterprises, though he has ability in that line, and is connected with a number of the leading business institutions of the State, as an officer or director. By nature and training he is most eminently qualified for public duties. He has a good knowledge of human character and an extensive acquaintance with prominent men not only in his own State but throughout the nation. These qualifications and above all his remarkable faculty for making friends wherever he goes, fit him admirably for the position and labors that have fallen to his lot. The character of John Henry Smith is a fine study for every young man; and from it one can gain valuable lessons. It requires no very close acquaintance to understand his disposition, for in it there is no element of deceit or artfulness. The motives by which he is actuated may be read in his open countenance and easy, natural and unassuming manner. He is straightforward in all his actions —never being guilty of any double-dealing — and is always outspoken and candid in expressing his sentiments. He possesses courage of the highest type—a fearlessness born of the assurance that he is in the right. These qualities impress all people with whom he comes in contact that he is sincere in his convictions whether or not they agree with his ideas. He is of a happy disposition, always hopeful, and he takes the most cheerful view of conditions that may confront him, no matter how discouraging the aspect may be. He is quick to discern and appreciate the good qualities of others, is ever thoughtful regarding their welfare, and is broad-minded in his views. He possesses the same good qualities of heart as of mind, and he is liberal almost to a fault. By his continued upright course in life he has established a credit for integrity and honesty, without which no man can expect to gain and retain the confidence of his fellows.no matter how brilliant his other attainments may be. As a public speaker, Apostle Smith is convincing, forceful and eloquent. His eloquence is that of sincere earnestness. In private conversation he displays the same earnestness, and is always interesting and entertaining. But the great secret of his influence with mankind is his love for them. The power that some men, more than others, seem to possess and exert over their fellows—frequently even against the will of the latter — is sometimes called personal magnetism. The force of attraction possessed by Apostle Smith is nothing less than the magnetism of pure love for humanity. Edwin F. Parry. |
APOSTLE JOHN HENRY SMITH.
|
Smith, John Henry. "Saved from Drowning Through a Father's Prayer." Juvenile Instructor. 1 September 1901. pg. 516.
SAVED FROM DROWNING THROUGH A FATHER'S PRAYER.
IN 1862, that year of phenomenal high water in Utah, the Provo river had overflowed its banks and cut its way in a new channel west of Provo bridge. I was then a lad of about fifteen years. One day, myself and Thomas and George M. Brown tried to cross the swollen stream about two hundred yards above the bridge, our purpose was to hunt cattle on the lake shore. The arrangement between us was that when the boat, which was old and leaky, reached the opposite bank Thomas Brown was to catch hold of some brush that was growing there and swing the boat round against the shore. The bank being high made this effort somewhat difficulty but Brown succeeded in getting hold of the brush. As the boat swung round, a tree, which was drifting down the river, struck the end of our frail craft and upset it, turning it right over. George M. Brown was thrown on a sand bar and waded out without much effort. Thomas Brown held on to the rope and sprang onto the overturned boat. I was not so fortunate. I fell into deep water and became entangled in the roots and branches of a floating tree which carried me under the water. I had great difficulty in getting free and when I did so I was almost exhausted. There was a large crowd of people on the bridge, and they, not knowing my exact condition, only that I was in trouble, kept shouting suggestions as to what was the best thing for me to do. Casting my eyes around I noticed that a little eddy broke over the bank just below the bridge and nearby was a pile of driftwood. With all my diminishing strength I made an effort to reach that point. The last thing I remember was I stuck my fingers in the mud on the bank and was sinking. Then I lost consciousness. While thus insensible I was lifted by some unknown power right out of the water and placed upon the land, and the first thing that I knew I was standing on the bank about ten feet or so from the spot where I had given myself up to drown.
My mother and her family were then living at Provo. My father, President George A. Smith, was in Salt Lake City. The next day but one after my miraculous escape, my mother received a letter from my father in which he stated that at such and such a day and time he became deeply impressed that I was in great peril. This feeling weighed upon him so heavily that he determined to clothe himself in the robes of the Priesthood and, at the altar, pray for my deliverance. This he did. Undoubtedly, from what he told us he was thus praying while I was vainly struggling in the swollen waters of the river and to his fervent prayers, I may ascribe my miraculous deliverance.
John Henry Smith.
SAVED FROM DROWNING THROUGH A FATHER'S PRAYER.
IN 1862, that year of phenomenal high water in Utah, the Provo river had overflowed its banks and cut its way in a new channel west of Provo bridge. I was then a lad of about fifteen years. One day, myself and Thomas and George M. Brown tried to cross the swollen stream about two hundred yards above the bridge, our purpose was to hunt cattle on the lake shore. The arrangement between us was that when the boat, which was old and leaky, reached the opposite bank Thomas Brown was to catch hold of some brush that was growing there and swing the boat round against the shore. The bank being high made this effort somewhat difficulty but Brown succeeded in getting hold of the brush. As the boat swung round, a tree, which was drifting down the river, struck the end of our frail craft and upset it, turning it right over. George M. Brown was thrown on a sand bar and waded out without much effort. Thomas Brown held on to the rope and sprang onto the overturned boat. I was not so fortunate. I fell into deep water and became entangled in the roots and branches of a floating tree which carried me under the water. I had great difficulty in getting free and when I did so I was almost exhausted. There was a large crowd of people on the bridge, and they, not knowing my exact condition, only that I was in trouble, kept shouting suggestions as to what was the best thing for me to do. Casting my eyes around I noticed that a little eddy broke over the bank just below the bridge and nearby was a pile of driftwood. With all my diminishing strength I made an effort to reach that point. The last thing I remember was I stuck my fingers in the mud on the bank and was sinking. Then I lost consciousness. While thus insensible I was lifted by some unknown power right out of the water and placed upon the land, and the first thing that I knew I was standing on the bank about ten feet or so from the spot where I had given myself up to drown.
My mother and her family were then living at Provo. My father, President George A. Smith, was in Salt Lake City. The next day but one after my miraculous escape, my mother received a letter from my father in which he stated that at such and such a day and time he became deeply impressed that I was in great peril. This feeling weighed upon him so heavily that he determined to clothe himself in the robes of the Priesthood and, at the altar, pray for my deliverance. This he did. Undoubtedly, from what he told us he was thus praying while I was vainly struggling in the swollen waters of the river and to his fervent prayers, I may ascribe my miraculous deliverance.
John Henry Smith.
"Apostle John Henry Smith." Young Woman's Journal. June 1903. pg. 251-252.
APOSTLE JOHN HENRY SMITH.
Salt Lake City, Utah,
April 24, 1903.
To the Editor of the Young Woman’s Journal:
The mission of woman is among the most important assigned to our Heavenly Father’s great family. Her mentality is of finer fiber, but is lacking in the rugged strength of the other sex; the delicate threads of her composition fit her for the wonderful field to which she is assigned by nature. In perfection her physical mould is a proper abode for her high spirituality. In this she far excels man. Morally she is his superior beyond comparison, for an examination of the facts would show that for one impure woman many vile men could be found. The prisons of the world tell a marvelous tale of the depravity of the one and the freedom from viciousness of the other. The Scripture speaks of the sons of perdition, but nowhere makes reference to any daughters being in the same fearful school. In charitable deeds she is unsurpassed. In love of the Supreme Being and country she stands first. In courage the women of Boerland are an example of the devotion of their sex, worthy of all admiration. Such also would be the position of Zion’s daughters if the exigency should arise requiring it.
The magnitude of the field for the young ladies of Zion to display their gifts is indeed great. Taught from childhood in every moral virtue, the highest and best ideals and every ennobling principle constantly held up before them, both in the home and the church, they are fully prepared to become the framers of all proper forms, the builders of pure minds. Into their hands associated with their brothers, has the Almighty placed the responsibility of conquering the world by righteousness. Zion’s daughters are to be the light and life of the world during its preparation for the abode of the just.
JOHN HENRY SMITH.
APOSTLE JOHN HENRY SMITH.
Salt Lake City, Utah,
April 24, 1903.
To the Editor of the Young Woman’s Journal:
The mission of woman is among the most important assigned to our Heavenly Father’s great family. Her mentality is of finer fiber, but is lacking in the rugged strength of the other sex; the delicate threads of her composition fit her for the wonderful field to which she is assigned by nature. In perfection her physical mould is a proper abode for her high spirituality. In this she far excels man. Morally she is his superior beyond comparison, for an examination of the facts would show that for one impure woman many vile men could be found. The prisons of the world tell a marvelous tale of the depravity of the one and the freedom from viciousness of the other. The Scripture speaks of the sons of perdition, but nowhere makes reference to any daughters being in the same fearful school. In charitable deeds she is unsurpassed. In love of the Supreme Being and country she stands first. In courage the women of Boerland are an example of the devotion of their sex, worthy of all admiration. Such also would be the position of Zion’s daughters if the exigency should arise requiring it.
The magnitude of the field for the young ladies of Zion to display their gifts is indeed great. Taught from childhood in every moral virtue, the highest and best ideals and every ennobling principle constantly held up before them, both in the home and the church, they are fully prepared to become the framers of all proper forms, the builders of pure minds. Into their hands associated with their brothers, has the Almighty placed the responsibility of conquering the world by righteousness. Zion’s daughters are to be the light and life of the world during its preparation for the abode of the just.
JOHN HENRY SMITH.
"President John Henry Smith." Juvenile Instructor. May 1910. pg. 210-211.
President John Henry Smith. It was with great satisfaction that the Saints in General Conference assembled, at the Tabernacle, Salt Lake City, April 6th, 1910, by hearty vote, unanimously sustained Elder John Henry Smith as Second Counselor in the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The appointment of President John Henry Smith to this exalted position is particularly fitting on account of his long association with the leading quorums of the Church and his wide experience and knowledge of affairs. The Juvenile Instructor, Vol. 35, p. 321, published an interesting sketch of the life of Brother John Henry, written by Elder Edwin F. Parry and to which we refer our readers; and we take the liberty of reproducing from that article the following truthful estimate of the character of President John Henry Smith: By nature and training he is most eminently qualified for public duties. He has a good knowledge of human character and an extensive acquaintance with prominent men not only in his own state but throughout the nation. These qualifications and above all his remarkable faculty for making friends wherever he goes, fit him admirably for the position and labors that have fallen to his lot. The character of John Henry Smith is a fine study for every young man; and from it one can gain valuable lessons. It requires no very close acquaintance to understand his disposition, for in it there is no element of deceit or artfulness. The motives by which he is actuated may be read in his open countenance and easy, natural and unassuming manner. He is straightforward in all his actions—never being guilty of any double-dealing—and is always outspoken and candid in expressing his sentiments. He possesses courage of the highest type—a fearlessness born of the assurance that he is in the right. These qualities impress all people with whom he comes in contact that he is sincere in his convictions whether or not they agree with his ideas. He is of a happy disposition, always hopeful, and he takes the most cheerful view of conditions that may confront him no matter how discouraging the aspect may be. He is quick to discern and appreciate the good qualities of others, is ever thoughtful regarding their welfare, and is broad-minded in his views. He possesses the same good qualities of heart as of mind, and he is liberal almost to a fault. By his continued upright course in life he has established a credit for integrity and honesty, without which no man can expect to gain and retain the confidence of his fellows, no matter how brilliant his other attainments may be. As a public speaker, Apostle Smith is convincing, forceful and eloquent. His eloquence is that of sincere earnestness. In private conversation he displays the same earnestness, and is always interesting and entertaining. But the great secret of his influence with mankind is his love for them. The power that some men, more than others, seem to possess and exert over their fellows— frequently even against the will of the latter—is sometimes called personal magnetism. The force of attraction possessed by Apostle Smith is nothing less than the magnetism of pure love for humanity. |
PRESIDENT JOHN HENRY SMITH.
|
"Some of the Activities of President John Henry Smith." Improvement Era. November 1911. pg. 58-60.
Some of the Activities of President John Henry Smith. Born at Carbunca, near Kanesville, now Council Bluffs, Pottawama County, Iowa, September 18, 1848. Reached Salt Lake City with his father's family October 27, 1849. Baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, September 18, 1856, by his father. Received a patriarchal blessing January 18, 1852, by Patriarch John Smith, which became the guiding star of his subsequent life. Received his schooling at Provo and Salt Lake City, obtaining a moderately good education for the times. Miraculously escaped drowning June 8, 1862, in Provo river, while crossing in a small boat which capsized. Married Sarah Farr, daughter of Lorin Farr, October 20, 1866. Was chosen as counsellor to Bishop W. A. Follett of Provo, 4th ward, in the summer of 1867. With Benson, Farr and West, he aided in the completion of two hundred miles of Central Pacific Railway, prior to the entrance of the road, in 1869. Was assistant clerk of the House of Representatives of the Territorial Legislature, of 1872, acting in that capacity also in the Constitutional Convention. Filled a mission to Europe, leaving Ogden, June 29, 1874, reaching New York, July 4, and Liverpool, July 26. He labored in the Birmingham Conference most of the time, and subsequently visited most of the conferences in Great Britain. In 1875, with President Joseph F. Smith, visited Denmark, Germany, Switzerland and France. He was called home in July, 1875, to the sick-bed of his father, George Albert Smith, who died September 1, 1875; and from that time was in the employ of the Utah Central Railway for several years. On November 22, 1875, was ordained a High Priest and Bishop by President Brigham Young, and set apart to preside over the 17th ward, Salt Lake City. On February 18, 1876, he was elected a member of the City Council from the 3rd precinct, serving as a councilman six years altogether. In April, 1877, he married Josephine Groesbeck. He was ordained an apostle, October 27, 1880, by President Wilford Woodruff. In October, 1882, he was sent to preside over the European mission, being absent from home two years and five months, and travelled extensively in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, visiting also the Isle of Man, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, France, Germany, Switzerland and Italy. On his return he labored incessantly among the stakes of Zion, organizing and instructing the Saints. In March, 1895, he was chosen president of the Constitutional Convention which formed the constitution under which Utah was admitted as a state to the Union, January, 1896. In 1899 he made a tour of the Southern States Mission. For several sessions he attended as a delegate the Irrigation and Trans-Mississippi Congresses; in 1900, visiting Houston, Texas, and later making a trip to Mexico. He was sustained April 6, and set apart as second counsellor in the First Presidency, April 7, 1910. In the course of his ministry he visited every stake of Zion, and many of them several times over. He died October 13, 1911. "He was beloved, beloved by all." Funeral services were held in the Salt Lake Tabernacle, October 17, 1911, and he lies buried in the Salt Lake City Cemetery. On October 16, 1911, Ex-governor Alvah Adams of Colorado paid a splendid tribute to John Henry Smith and Brigham Young in the session of the Dry Farming Congress, at Colorado Springs. |
PRESIDENT JOHN HENRY SMITH.
Born September 18, 1848, died October 13, 1911. |
Larson, Louis W. "In Memoriam, John Henry Smith." Improvement Era. November 1911. pg. 60.
In Memoriam, John Henry Smith.
(For the Improvement Era.)
Another son hath joined the caravan,
Gone by the threshold with a noiseless tread;
His crown of years is settled on his head;
The heaven's gain, we lose a noble man.
Those eyes, that through an outer dross could see
The spark of good that hidden lies within,
Are closed upon a world of toil and sin,
To see the light of immortality.
His voice, that gripped the heart unto his own,
E'en by the power of its subtle thrill,
To nameless sorrowing souls is hushed and still,
To awake an echo in that better home.
A beacon light is gone out, in the earth;
Though happily this brief span is not the end;
We know we'll meet our genial, loyal friend
There in the sphere of our primeval birth.
Louis W. Larson,
Lewiston, Utah.
In Memoriam, John Henry Smith.
(For the Improvement Era.)
Another son hath joined the caravan,
Gone by the threshold with a noiseless tread;
His crown of years is settled on his head;
The heaven's gain, we lose a noble man.
Those eyes, that through an outer dross could see
The spark of good that hidden lies within,
Are closed upon a world of toil and sin,
To see the light of immortality.
His voice, that gripped the heart unto his own,
E'en by the power of its subtle thrill,
To nameless sorrowing souls is hushed and still,
To awake an echo in that better home.
A beacon light is gone out, in the earth;
Though happily this brief span is not the end;
We know we'll meet our genial, loyal friend
There in the sphere of our primeval birth.
Louis W. Larson,
Lewiston, Utah.
"John Henry Smith." Improvement Era. November 1911. pg. 77-78.
John Henry Smith
To the passing of John Henry Smith, pioneer, faithful Churchman, loyal citizen, and big-hearted friend, applies with force the biblical expression: "There is a prince and a great man fallen this day in Israel." From the day of his birth, when his people were migrating through force of circumstance to the unbroken valleys of the mountains, to the end of his days, he was a cheerful pioneer and builder. His life was free and open as the plains, his character as staunch as the everlasting hills.
In his constant labors for the Church, and in his untiring efforts for the establishment of the gospel of Jesus Christ, through the organizations of the Church, and in the clean, sweet life he lived, he daily and diligently added to his faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. And so he grew and was fruitful in the cause of God upon the earth, and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ whose devoted servant he was — a valiant chieftain, a zealous, noble worker for the Cross. He was pre-eminently a lover of mankind, and with cheer and energy devoted his strength to their uplifting, and to the amelioration of the race—for that is the primary purpose of the Church of Christ, in which he was a faithful member and a beloved leader.
Through his father, George Albert Smith, and a long line of patriot kinsmen, he inherited a strong love of country, which made him a loyal and upright citizen. He was the embodiment of those great, noble and broad-minded principles that teach men to freely tolerate the views of others, giving to them the right of freedom of conscience, and interfering with no man's religious views or worship;—principles that make men willing to grant liberty generously to all. John Henry loved the constitution and laws of his country, and was loyal to the core. He taught respect for our flag and institutions, and honored our nation's heroes and statesmen. He glorified the dead, and prayed for the living.
His broad spirit of tolerance enabled him to hold factions together for the good of his state and people, even when bitter disputes threatened to disrupt. And what he did with his own, he was admirably qualified to accomplish with strangers, and so in his activities he allayed prejudice against Utah and her people wherever he journeyed throughout the land, or associated with leaders of men in congresses and conventions.
His masterly eloquence and convincing speech made friends everywhere, because there were no stings to bruise—only tolerance, truth and brotherly kindness, to win the heart. He not only went about doing good, but he saw and sought good in all men, and found it; and they in turn respected his sterling manhood, and loved him and his people for his love of them. His name is known for good from one end of the land to the other—and with the Latter-day Saints is a household word. It is said that he loves God most who serves mankind the best. Judged by this standard, John Henry Smith was a true lover of God, for he was a friend and lover of all men.
Straightforward in his actions, guilty of no double dealing, outspoken, candid, full of cheer and hope, respected and loved by all, hated by none, full of integrity for the truth, and faithful in all things, John Henry Smith has finished his work and passed to his fathers, full of years and honor.
In the great tabernacle, on October 17, the day his body was laid to rest, ten thousand friends, among the hundreds of thousands who mourned his death, paid their tribute of love to him as a man of sterling character, a loyal citizen, a wise counsellor, and a dear, big-hearted friend.
John Henry Smith
To the passing of John Henry Smith, pioneer, faithful Churchman, loyal citizen, and big-hearted friend, applies with force the biblical expression: "There is a prince and a great man fallen this day in Israel." From the day of his birth, when his people were migrating through force of circumstance to the unbroken valleys of the mountains, to the end of his days, he was a cheerful pioneer and builder. His life was free and open as the plains, his character as staunch as the everlasting hills.
In his constant labors for the Church, and in his untiring efforts for the establishment of the gospel of Jesus Christ, through the organizations of the Church, and in the clean, sweet life he lived, he daily and diligently added to his faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. And so he grew and was fruitful in the cause of God upon the earth, and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ whose devoted servant he was — a valiant chieftain, a zealous, noble worker for the Cross. He was pre-eminently a lover of mankind, and with cheer and energy devoted his strength to their uplifting, and to the amelioration of the race—for that is the primary purpose of the Church of Christ, in which he was a faithful member and a beloved leader.
Through his father, George Albert Smith, and a long line of patriot kinsmen, he inherited a strong love of country, which made him a loyal and upright citizen. He was the embodiment of those great, noble and broad-minded principles that teach men to freely tolerate the views of others, giving to them the right of freedom of conscience, and interfering with no man's religious views or worship;—principles that make men willing to grant liberty generously to all. John Henry loved the constitution and laws of his country, and was loyal to the core. He taught respect for our flag and institutions, and honored our nation's heroes and statesmen. He glorified the dead, and prayed for the living.
His broad spirit of tolerance enabled him to hold factions together for the good of his state and people, even when bitter disputes threatened to disrupt. And what he did with his own, he was admirably qualified to accomplish with strangers, and so in his activities he allayed prejudice against Utah and her people wherever he journeyed throughout the land, or associated with leaders of men in congresses and conventions.
His masterly eloquence and convincing speech made friends everywhere, because there were no stings to bruise—only tolerance, truth and brotherly kindness, to win the heart. He not only went about doing good, but he saw and sought good in all men, and found it; and they in turn respected his sterling manhood, and loved him and his people for his love of them. His name is known for good from one end of the land to the other—and with the Latter-day Saints is a household word. It is said that he loves God most who serves mankind the best. Judged by this standard, John Henry Smith was a true lover of God, for he was a friend and lover of all men.
Straightforward in his actions, guilty of no double dealing, outspoken, candid, full of cheer and hope, respected and loved by all, hated by none, full of integrity for the truth, and faithful in all things, John Henry Smith has finished his work and passed to his fathers, full of years and honor.
In the great tabernacle, on October 17, the day his body was laid to rest, ten thousand friends, among the hundreds of thousands who mourned his death, paid their tribute of love to him as a man of sterling character, a loyal citizen, a wise counsellor, and a dear, big-hearted friend.
"Tribute to John Henry Smith." Improvement Era. November 1911. pg. 83-85.
A Tribute to John Henry Smith—His Labors in the M. I. A.
At the funeral services of President John Henry Smith, Elder Heber J. Grant paid this tribute to him, in connection with his labors in the M. I. A:
Elder John Henry Smith's official connection with the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Associations dated back almost to the commencement of the organization in June, 1875. He had been called home from his European mission, in the following August, on account of the serious illness of his father, Pres. Geo. A. Smith, arriving in time to spend about two weeks at his bedside before he died on September 1st.
John Henry attended a few of the meetings that were being held to organize the associations that fall, and on the 6th of November, 1875, received a letter of appointment, in connection with Elders Milton H. Hardy and B. Morris Young, from the First Presidency of the Church, "to take up and continue the work of organizing the associations throughout the Church," which had been begun by Elder Junius F. Wells, who had, a few days before, started upon a mission to the middle and eastern states.
During the winter of 1875-6 Elders Smith, Hardy and Young were very active, visiting and holding meetings in a good many places in the territory. They reported the result of their labors at the first conference of the associations, held in the Old Tabernacle, April 8, 1876. There had been organized up to that time fifty-three associations, with about 1,200 members. Some time before this conference Elder Smith was called to be bishop of the 17th ward, November 22, 1875, holding that office until he was ordained to the apostleship, October 27, 1880.
The duties of these offices in the Priesthood occupied the greater part of his time, the burden of the work among the young men falling upon other shoulders. He, nevertheless, was always interested in the associations, and when the General Superintendency was sustained, in June, 1897, and a General Board of Aids or Assistants was appointed, he was chosen to be one of these; and in this position continued, officially and actively, to labor for the welfare of the organization until his death. In his public ministry, visiting the conferences and missions of the Church, at which meetings for the young people were arranged, he would be sure to attend such meetings; and his discourses to the young were always inspired with interest and love for them, and were inspiring and encouraging to them, to be true to their birthright in the Church and loyal to their country.
In the meetings of the General Board, of which he was always a faithful attendant when possible, his counsel was for the wise and prudent and patriotic course—always evincing great concern for preserving the young men of the community in purity of thought and conduct. His pride and ambition was to have them worthy of the companionship of pure women, and willing to be the protectors of such. He advocated early marriage among them, and the assumption by every young man of the duties and responsibilities of the head of a family. He believed that such men made the best citizens of the Republic, and he was tireless in urging young men to become good citizens—to be lovers of their country, defenders of he constitution, loyal to the flag.
He advocated and practiced the advice of the Prophet Joseph, given to his father—"Preach short sermons, and make short prayers; and deliver your sermons with a prayerful heart."
In his passing out of this life, the young men of Zion, and, for that matter, the young men of all the world, lose an exemplar and loving advocate of what a young man should be. Every young man who needs a friend has lost one in his death; but they have the memory of one true and faithful, and in every way worthy of praise and emulation, so long as they remember the life and character of John Henry Smith.
A Tribute to John Henry Smith—His Labors in the M. I. A.
At the funeral services of President John Henry Smith, Elder Heber J. Grant paid this tribute to him, in connection with his labors in the M. I. A:
Elder John Henry Smith's official connection with the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Associations dated back almost to the commencement of the organization in June, 1875. He had been called home from his European mission, in the following August, on account of the serious illness of his father, Pres. Geo. A. Smith, arriving in time to spend about two weeks at his bedside before he died on September 1st.
John Henry attended a few of the meetings that were being held to organize the associations that fall, and on the 6th of November, 1875, received a letter of appointment, in connection with Elders Milton H. Hardy and B. Morris Young, from the First Presidency of the Church, "to take up and continue the work of organizing the associations throughout the Church," which had been begun by Elder Junius F. Wells, who had, a few days before, started upon a mission to the middle and eastern states.
During the winter of 1875-6 Elders Smith, Hardy and Young were very active, visiting and holding meetings in a good many places in the territory. They reported the result of their labors at the first conference of the associations, held in the Old Tabernacle, April 8, 1876. There had been organized up to that time fifty-three associations, with about 1,200 members. Some time before this conference Elder Smith was called to be bishop of the 17th ward, November 22, 1875, holding that office until he was ordained to the apostleship, October 27, 1880.
The duties of these offices in the Priesthood occupied the greater part of his time, the burden of the work among the young men falling upon other shoulders. He, nevertheless, was always interested in the associations, and when the General Superintendency was sustained, in June, 1897, and a General Board of Aids or Assistants was appointed, he was chosen to be one of these; and in this position continued, officially and actively, to labor for the welfare of the organization until his death. In his public ministry, visiting the conferences and missions of the Church, at which meetings for the young people were arranged, he would be sure to attend such meetings; and his discourses to the young were always inspired with interest and love for them, and were inspiring and encouraging to them, to be true to their birthright in the Church and loyal to their country.
In the meetings of the General Board, of which he was always a faithful attendant when possible, his counsel was for the wise and prudent and patriotic course—always evincing great concern for preserving the young men of the community in purity of thought and conduct. His pride and ambition was to have them worthy of the companionship of pure women, and willing to be the protectors of such. He advocated early marriage among them, and the assumption by every young man of the duties and responsibilities of the head of a family. He believed that such men made the best citizens of the Republic, and he was tireless in urging young men to become good citizens—to be lovers of their country, defenders of he constitution, loyal to the flag.
He advocated and practiced the advice of the Prophet Joseph, given to his father—"Preach short sermons, and make short prayers; and deliver your sermons with a prayerful heart."
In his passing out of this life, the young men of Zion, and, for that matter, the young men of all the world, lose an exemplar and loving advocate of what a young man should be. Every young man who needs a friend has lost one in his death; but they have the memory of one true and faithful, and in every way worthy of praise and emulation, so long as they remember the life and character of John Henry Smith.
Parry, Edwin F. "President John Henry Smith." Juvenile Instructor. November 1911. pg. 626-630.
President John Henry Smith. By Edwin F. Parry. President John Henry Smith passed from this life suddenly and with short warning on the 13th of October, 1911. He was so well known throughout this western country and to the Latter-day Saints generally that it is scarcely necessary to write of his life and labors. Many of the youthful readers of this magazine, however, may have known him only by name and features; but it is safe to say that among the adult readers there are thousands who knew him personally and esteemed him highly. His whole life was practically spent in Utah, for he came here with his parents when only a year old. The birthplace of John Henry Smith was Carbunca, near Kanesville (now Council Bluffs) Iowa. Here his mother was temporarily residing on the journey westward from Nauvoo to the Rocky mountains. Many of the exiled Saints were then located in this neighborhood—some on the west side of the Missouri river in what was known as Winter Quarters, (now Florence, Nebraska) and some on the east side, at Kanesville and other places. The date of John Henry's birth was the 18th of September, 1848. Previous to his advent, his father, George A. Smith, had accompanied President Brigham Young and the other Pioneers on their memorable journey to the valley of the Great Salt Lake, where they located a gathering place for the homeless pilgrims they had left behind. A few weeks after their arrival in the valley, George A. Smith and others returned to their families, a thousand miles away, for the purpose of bringing them to the newly-found resting place. In the summer of 1849, with the mother and child and other members of his family, the father started for Salt Lake City, and arrived there on the 27th of October. The boy's mother, Sarah Ann Libby Smith, had been an invalid for several years, and on June 12, 1851, she passed away. Her only child, John Henry, was placed in the care of his mother's sister, Hannah Maria, who was also one of his father's wives. She proved a true mother to him, and gave him the same attention as she did her own children, and he loved her as much as one could love a natural mother. To her teachings and constant watchcare he always attributed what success he attained in life. His boyhood days were mostly spent in Provo, where his aunt resided. Here he attended school and received such education as the place and time afforded. His occupation out of school was much the same as that of other Utah boys of the same period. One duty was that of herding cattle on the Provo bench and in the "bottoms" along the shore of Utah Lake. He matured rapidly in stature and was strong and robust; and among the boys he was ever popular. As he grew older he spent part of his time in Salt Lake City, where he went to attend school. His parents sought to give him every educational advantage to be had. although such opportunities for a scholastic training were meagre then as compared to those of the present time. John Henry was a man in stature in his teens. He also possessed the self-reliance to start out upon his own resources. At the age of eighteen he married Miss Sarah Farr, daughter of the late Hon. Lorin Farr, of Ogden, and a highly estimable lady in every respect. She was ever a true and devoted helpmeet to him. Ten years later he married Miss Josephine Groesbeck, daughter of Elder Nicholas Groesbeck, an equally ;true partner in life. In his domestic affairs he has been fortunate. His home has ever been a place of peace and happiness. It can be truthfully said that his was a model Christian home. Within it were love, cheerfulness and contentment; and there the parents received the honor, respect and affection due their position ; while the children were governed with tender consideration, gentleness and patience. For a time after their marriage the young couple resided in Provo, where the husband was engaged as a telegraph operator for the old Deseret Telegraph line. When only nineteen years old he was chosen as counselor to Bishop W. A. Follett of the Fourth ward. At the time when the transcontinental railway was nearing completion he engaged with Messrs. Benson, Farr and West, contractors on the Central Pacific. His next position was that of assistant clerk of the house of representatives of the Utah Legislature. This was in 1872. He was also assistant clerk of the Constitutional Convention held that year. June 29, 1874, he started upon a mission to Europe. On his way he visited relatives in the Eastern States, and reached Liverpool, England, July 26th. At that time his cousin. President Joseph F. Smith presided over the European mission, and John Henry was assigned to labor as a traveling Elder in the Birmingham conference. While in the mission he visited most of the English conferences ; and in company with Presidents Joseph F. Smith. Francis M. Lyman and others visited Denmark, Germany, Switzerland and France. He was called home from this mission on account of his father's illness, and arrived in time to spend fifteen days at his father's bedside previous to the latter's death, which occurred September 1, 1875. That same year, on the 22nd of November, he was set apart as Bishop of the Seventeenth ward of Salt Lake City. His home was in that ward at that time, and he continued to reside there throughout the remainder of his life. He held the position of Bishop nearly five years, and fulfilled the exacting duties of it satisfactorily. During this period he was employed by the old Utah Central Railway Company. His call to the apostleship dates from October 10, 1880. At the semiannual conference of that year, Elders Francis M. Lyman and John Henry Smith were nominated and sustained to fill vacancies in the quorum of the Twelve caused by the reorganization of the First Presidency. Owing to the absence of Elder Lyman, they were not ordained until the 27th of the month. From this date his time was almost entirely devoted to public labors, and many of his duties took him away from home. He visited the stakes of Zion, attending conferences, instructing and encouraging the Saints, organizing and setting in order stakes and wards, etc. He traveled extensively throughout the United States, into Canada and Mexico, visiting the various missions of the Church. In October, 1882, Elder Smith was called to preside over the European Mission, with headquarters at Liverpool, England. There he labored for more than two years, traveling and preaching among the conferences and looking after the interests of the mission. When he returned, arrests and prosecutions under the anti-polygamy laws were being vigorously carried on. He was arrested on the prevailing charge of "unlawful cohabitation," but was discharged on account of lack of evidence. Upon several occasions he went to Washington, D. C, in the interest of the people of Utah and the Church. His first mission to the Capital was in 1882, when the Edmunds antipolygamy bill was before Congress. He and Elder Moses Thatcher were sent there to labor in connection with Utah's delegate, Hon. George O. Cannon, to prevent if possible the passage of the bill. Later he went there to work for the admission of Utah as a State, and again to modify the sentiments of leading men in regard to the Latter-day Saints. After the death of President John R. Winder, John Henry Smith was elevated to the quorum of the First Presidency of the Church, being chosen as Second Counselor to President Joseph F. Smith, and was sustained" in this position at the Annual Conference, April 6, 1910. Among the civil and political positions filled by John Henry Smith might be mentioned the following: In February, 1876, he was elected to the Salt Lake City Council, and being reelected twice he served for six years in this capacity. In August, 1881, he was elected a member of the Territorial Legislature. He served several sessions as a delegate to the Irrigation and the Trans-Mississippi congresses. Of the latter he was elected president for one of its sessions. He was ever active in the political affairs of the Territory and State. When the People's Party and the Liberals divided upon national political lines he was one of the first and foremost in advocating the principles of Republicanism in the Territory, and continued to be an active Republican in politics. He was president of the convention that formed the constitution under which Utah was admitted as a State of the Union. At the time of his death he was a member of the State Capitol Commission, a director in several large business corporations, and a member of the general board of the Young Men's Mutual Improvement Associations. The foregoing is only a bare outline of President John Henry Smith's public labors—an incomplete catalogue of official positions held by him. While it may serve as an index to the character of the man, indicating as it does that he had the confidence of the people who called him to such important positions, it tells nothing of the labors performed or of the anxieties and struggles endured to fulfil these sacred trusts imposed upon him ; of the sacrifices of pleasure and of the comforts of home that otherwise might have been enjoyed; of the unselfishness he manifested for the good of the public ; of the opposition encountered in contending for the rights of an injured and unpopular people. Nor does it tell of the successes, the triumphs and the honors achieved by his untiring activity. Perhaps the story of how he fitted himself for such a useful career is of more interest and profit to the youthful reader than this account of the leading events of his life. It is a story of faithfulness to duty, determination to advance in all that tends to elevate and of unshaken loyalty to the cause of right. In early life he was taught to be honest, fair and straightforward in all his dealings, to be kind, loving and considerate, to respect the rights of others, and above all to keep pure in morals and manners. The observance of these teachings formed a solid foundation for his future course. When he was a boy there were not many opportunities for acquiring the art of public speaking, such as young people have today. His first effort at preaching would be called a failure. He said but a very few words which were not particularly edifying nor convincing, only so far as they convinced him and his hearers that there was something for him to learn before he could expect to become a public speaker. But he did not give up because he failed of success in the first effort. He continued to make attempts when opportunity afforded, and willingly responded when called upon to address public assemblies. In time he became an eloquent and impressive speaker, and was regarded as an accomplished orator. But the force of his oratory was from the honesty of his convictions more than from a display of flowery language. He earnestly believed in what he said, and was free to express plainly what he did believe. As a young man he had the privilege of associating as much as a boy might with the leading authorities of the Church and other prominent men. His father, George A. Smith, was one of the Twelve Apostles and later counselor to President Brigham Young. By associating and traveling with such men at a time of life when his mind was most receptive of impressions, he naturally imbibed ideas of statesmanship from their conduct and conversation. This experience and his travels abroad later in life helped to give him breadth of soul such as he possessed. There were other agencies that helped in the formation of his noble character. From his father and other ancestors he inherited a strong love for his country and its glorious institutions. This loyalty was genuine, and seemed to be uppermost in his mind on all occasions. When he was but a child, his grandfather John Smith, who was at the time Patriarch of the Church, gave him an inspired patriarchal blessing, in which his life was marked out. This was ever a guide to him and an incentive to noble action. Another such incentive was a remark once made to him by Col. Thomas L. Kane. When a young man he called upon that distinguished gentleman—that ever true and staunch friend to the Latter-day Saints—and in the course of the interview Col. Kane said to him in such an impressive way that he could not forget it: "Young man, I trust that you will ever remember that the best blood of the nineteenth century flows in your veins." This was an appeal to his patriotism that had a lasting impression for good upon him. The idea conveyed in the expression—that the founders of Utah were of the noblest and strongest characters of the nineteenth century—should awaken within all their children and grandchildren, as well as the youth of Zion generally, a determination to maintain and perpetuate the good name of their fathers. One of the chief traits of the character of John Henry Smith was his faculty of making friends. It has been said that he had no enemies. His sincere love for mankind attracted the respect of all classes that came within the reach of his influence. If he did have enemies, they were enemies to the unpopular cause he represented and defended so untiringly, throughout life, rather than to him personally ; and whenever he had a chance to meet such opponents he often succeeded in making friends of them. His exceptional ability to make friends and to create harmony among contending parties made him a great power for good in the community ; and yet the secret of his success in this line was his tolerance, his love of justice and the kindness which he was ever willing to extend to all parties. The character of this great man is a fine study for every youth, and from it he can gain valuable lessons. By his constant upright course in life he established a credit for integrity and honesty, without which no man can expect to gain and retain the confidence of his fellows, no matter how brilliant his other attainments may be. |
PRESIDENT JOHN HENRY SMITH.
|
Penrose, Charles W "President John Henry Smith." Young Woman's Journal. November 1911. pg. 534-536.
President John Henry Smith.
By Charles W. Penrose.
There is mourning in the land. There is grief in Israel, there is sorrow among the Gentiles. John Henry Smith has gone from mortal life and has left a huge gap that now seems almost impossible to fill. There is a void in many thousands of human hearts, and an empty place in numerous important public positions, secular and religious. Therefore, the gloom that has come upon us is widespread and unconfined. The suddenness of his departure adds force to the shock that we so deeply feel. We stand in helpless awe amid the rain of our tears. Help us, O Lord, to bear this bereavement with fortitude and humble submission to Thy providences!
Our brother and friend whose loss means so much to us and to the world, was indeed “beloved, beloved by all.” Jew and Gentile, saint and sinner, men and women of every race and creed and party held him in high esteem, for his big heart throbbed kindly for them all. He embraced the whole world in his sturdy arms. He could find good in everyone, and speak a kind word even to and for his foes, if he really had any; for he cherished no animosities, and those who opposed him in theory or in practice honored and respected though they might stubbornly withstand John Henry Smith.
Throughout the valleys of these mountains; in Utah, in Colorado, in Arizona, in New Mexico, in Nevada and Idaho and Wyoming and Montana, away up in Canada and far south in Old Mexico and west in California, the presence and influence and teachings of the departed Apostle and President have left their impress for good, and have kindled the glow of love for him and for the truth, everywhere. And in distant parts where he figured as a representative of the Great West, at conventions and congresses for the promotion of vast enterprises and the development of natural and industrial resources, the portly form and hearty presence and genial spirit of John Henry, as he was familiarly called, were welcomed by leading men, and his views and advice were highly valued. In foreign lands, too, his fame has extended and the fruits of his labors are abundant. Great Britain and the nations of continental Europe have been stirred by his teachings, and his name is honored wherever he went. His portrait adorns the walls of many homes, and people of various tongues utter his name with reverence and affection.
Our beloved brother stood in the front rank of religious, political, commercial, and industrial organizations. His mind was practical and his experience great. Every Stake and Ward in Zion have been benefitted by his counsels. Good common sense was blended with spiritual fervor in his ministry. He was sound in doctrine, inspirational in pulpit or on platform. Stalwart in person, a splendid type of physical manhood, he was broadminded and liberal, zealous without bigotry, intense without fanaticism.
A strong partisan, inheriting a political bias, he recognized the rights of others who did not agree with him, and had respect for their opinions. He was everybody’s friend, therefore he was the friend of everybody. Fearless in the expression of his views he was yet courteous in manner and tolerant in speech. His love of country and fidelity to its institutions and its authorities, bespoke the true patriot and animated his soul in private as in public ministrations. His faith in God and Christ and devotion to his Church and its institutions were sublime. Every organization in it received his support and is indebted to him for active aid and favor. The Young Ladies’ Association shared largely in these benefactions and its officers and members mourn his loss and will ever cherish his memory.
Every heart wells up in floods of sympathy for his bereaved family. They will miss his genial smile and blessed presence as no other mortals can. He was a loving husband and father, an example to his household and a pillar of strength to the homes he established. His posterity are already illustrious, and will shine brighter as the years pass on, and will never fade out or perish from the earth. God bless them in this hour of their trial and give them that consolation which can come only from on high!
Farewell, dear John Henry Smith thou valiant warrior in the army of the Lord. Thy sword, wielded for truth and liberty and right, is sheathed for this world of strife. But it will flash in the light of the spirit land as it never gleamed before, and in the same great cause it will hew the way to victory over error and sin and misery. A royal welcome is thine among the hosts of the sainted heroes who have gone before and who salute and honor thee at thine entrance into Paradise. Sweet rest is on thy mortal form, and bliss and peace are for thy noble spirit, freed from the shackles of earth and time. A glorious resurrection awaits thee and a shining crown that shall glow forever on thy kingly and priestly head. Then may we greet thee again, and with the just and the true, with thy ancestors and thy descendants, with thy loved ones in glory supernal, may we behold, with thee, our Eternal Father, and thine, and the Beloved Son, the Christ whom thou hast served so faithfully unto “the end!” Amen.
The soul has fled from its temporary tabernacle, but his memory lives on, even as his soul is immortal. Take the wreath from the door of his home, make it a laurel wreath to crown this victor in life’s battlefield, and as we place the ivy on his brow, may we plant for him the ivy of love, of hope and memory, to treasure among men the enduring recollection of John Henry Smith, the lover of man, the true friend of God.
“ ‘A great character is like a sanctuary. You visit it and go away, then duty begins.’ We have been in the presence of greatness, and on holy giound. We go hence and duty begins, that duty which spells itself in actions of deserved emulation of him we loved and whom we honor.”— From tribute of Rabbi Charles J. Freund at President John Henry Smith's funeral.
President John Henry Smith.
By Charles W. Penrose.
There is mourning in the land. There is grief in Israel, there is sorrow among the Gentiles. John Henry Smith has gone from mortal life and has left a huge gap that now seems almost impossible to fill. There is a void in many thousands of human hearts, and an empty place in numerous important public positions, secular and religious. Therefore, the gloom that has come upon us is widespread and unconfined. The suddenness of his departure adds force to the shock that we so deeply feel. We stand in helpless awe amid the rain of our tears. Help us, O Lord, to bear this bereavement with fortitude and humble submission to Thy providences!
Our brother and friend whose loss means so much to us and to the world, was indeed “beloved, beloved by all.” Jew and Gentile, saint and sinner, men and women of every race and creed and party held him in high esteem, for his big heart throbbed kindly for them all. He embraced the whole world in his sturdy arms. He could find good in everyone, and speak a kind word even to and for his foes, if he really had any; for he cherished no animosities, and those who opposed him in theory or in practice honored and respected though they might stubbornly withstand John Henry Smith.
Throughout the valleys of these mountains; in Utah, in Colorado, in Arizona, in New Mexico, in Nevada and Idaho and Wyoming and Montana, away up in Canada and far south in Old Mexico and west in California, the presence and influence and teachings of the departed Apostle and President have left their impress for good, and have kindled the glow of love for him and for the truth, everywhere. And in distant parts where he figured as a representative of the Great West, at conventions and congresses for the promotion of vast enterprises and the development of natural and industrial resources, the portly form and hearty presence and genial spirit of John Henry, as he was familiarly called, were welcomed by leading men, and his views and advice were highly valued. In foreign lands, too, his fame has extended and the fruits of his labors are abundant. Great Britain and the nations of continental Europe have been stirred by his teachings, and his name is honored wherever he went. His portrait adorns the walls of many homes, and people of various tongues utter his name with reverence and affection.
Our beloved brother stood in the front rank of religious, political, commercial, and industrial organizations. His mind was practical and his experience great. Every Stake and Ward in Zion have been benefitted by his counsels. Good common sense was blended with spiritual fervor in his ministry. He was sound in doctrine, inspirational in pulpit or on platform. Stalwart in person, a splendid type of physical manhood, he was broadminded and liberal, zealous without bigotry, intense without fanaticism.
A strong partisan, inheriting a political bias, he recognized the rights of others who did not agree with him, and had respect for their opinions. He was everybody’s friend, therefore he was the friend of everybody. Fearless in the expression of his views he was yet courteous in manner and tolerant in speech. His love of country and fidelity to its institutions and its authorities, bespoke the true patriot and animated his soul in private as in public ministrations. His faith in God and Christ and devotion to his Church and its institutions were sublime. Every organization in it received his support and is indebted to him for active aid and favor. The Young Ladies’ Association shared largely in these benefactions and its officers and members mourn his loss and will ever cherish his memory.
Every heart wells up in floods of sympathy for his bereaved family. They will miss his genial smile and blessed presence as no other mortals can. He was a loving husband and father, an example to his household and a pillar of strength to the homes he established. His posterity are already illustrious, and will shine brighter as the years pass on, and will never fade out or perish from the earth. God bless them in this hour of their trial and give them that consolation which can come only from on high!
Farewell, dear John Henry Smith thou valiant warrior in the army of the Lord. Thy sword, wielded for truth and liberty and right, is sheathed for this world of strife. But it will flash in the light of the spirit land as it never gleamed before, and in the same great cause it will hew the way to victory over error and sin and misery. A royal welcome is thine among the hosts of the sainted heroes who have gone before and who salute and honor thee at thine entrance into Paradise. Sweet rest is on thy mortal form, and bliss and peace are for thy noble spirit, freed from the shackles of earth and time. A glorious resurrection awaits thee and a shining crown that shall glow forever on thy kingly and priestly head. Then may we greet thee again, and with the just and the true, with thy ancestors and thy descendants, with thy loved ones in glory supernal, may we behold, with thee, our Eternal Father, and thine, and the Beloved Son, the Christ whom thou hast served so faithfully unto “the end!” Amen.
The soul has fled from its temporary tabernacle, but his memory lives on, even as his soul is immortal. Take the wreath from the door of his home, make it a laurel wreath to crown this victor in life’s battlefield, and as we place the ivy on his brow, may we plant for him the ivy of love, of hope and memory, to treasure among men the enduring recollection of John Henry Smith, the lover of man, the true friend of God.
“ ‘A great character is like a sanctuary. You visit it and go away, then duty begins.’ We have been in the presence of greatness, and on holy giound. We go hence and duty begins, that duty which spells itself in actions of deserved emulation of him we loved and whom we honor.”— From tribute of Rabbi Charles J. Freund at President John Henry Smith's funeral.
"President John Henry Smith." Young Woman's Journal. November 1911. pg. 643.
President John Henry Smith.
In the taking away of President John Henry Smith, the Church loses one of its most valiant defenders, the State, one of its most devoted citizens, the Nation, one of its most loyal sons.
It is a rare thing to find one man interested in so many fields of activity as was John Henry Smith. Often the devoted churchman takes no active part in political affairs, while the man who labors in big public movements often takes no active part in religious work, but President Smith took keen interest in church, state, national and international progress. He was known throughout the nation because of his active participation in so many congresses. He sought to understand people and conditions, and things everywhere.
Business men are often cold and abrupt, but he was always kind and considerate. Many men love their fellows but all too few tell them so. By words and acts President Smith let people know that he was interested in their welfare. He put his arms around his friends. His fervent handclasp and sweet smile bore messages from his warm and loving heart.
It is no wonder, then, that this broad, many sided, big hearted man won friends wherever he went. People realized that they were in the presence of a great man and they yielded their homage to him.
He was a magnetic speaker, many, in time of temptation, have heard his words ringing in their ears and have overcome, for he held high the standard of purity, patriotism, and love of truth.
He is not dead for he has earned that greatest gift of God to man—eternal life. He is not dead for he will live in the hearts of his family and friends. The example he set will lie emulated and his associates will be bigger and better because they basked in the sunshine of his presence.
Beautiful was his life, beautiful was his passing for he labored in the Master’s vineyard to the last day of his mortal life. He wears a conqueror’s crown, death was not his victor but his friend. Life was pleasant and desirable but when the Master said “Come home,” he went gladly.
Greater than our sorrow is our rejoicing that one more of the Lord’s disciples has fought the good fight and kept the faith. He went quietly to sleep here, he shall awake there “in the presence of the living God.”
President John Henry Smith.
In the taking away of President John Henry Smith, the Church loses one of its most valiant defenders, the State, one of its most devoted citizens, the Nation, one of its most loyal sons.
It is a rare thing to find one man interested in so many fields of activity as was John Henry Smith. Often the devoted churchman takes no active part in political affairs, while the man who labors in big public movements often takes no active part in religious work, but President Smith took keen interest in church, state, national and international progress. He was known throughout the nation because of his active participation in so many congresses. He sought to understand people and conditions, and things everywhere.
Business men are often cold and abrupt, but he was always kind and considerate. Many men love their fellows but all too few tell them so. By words and acts President Smith let people know that he was interested in their welfare. He put his arms around his friends. His fervent handclasp and sweet smile bore messages from his warm and loving heart.
It is no wonder, then, that this broad, many sided, big hearted man won friends wherever he went. People realized that they were in the presence of a great man and they yielded their homage to him.
He was a magnetic speaker, many, in time of temptation, have heard his words ringing in their ears and have overcome, for he held high the standard of purity, patriotism, and love of truth.
He is not dead for he has earned that greatest gift of God to man—eternal life. He is not dead for he will live in the hearts of his family and friends. The example he set will lie emulated and his associates will be bigger and better because they basked in the sunshine of his presence.
Beautiful was his life, beautiful was his passing for he labored in the Master’s vineyard to the last day of his mortal life. He wears a conqueror’s crown, death was not his victor but his friend. Life was pleasant and desirable but when the Master said “Come home,” he went gladly.
Greater than our sorrow is our rejoicing that one more of the Lord’s disciples has fought the good fight and kept the faith. He went quietly to sleep here, he shall awake there “in the presence of the living God.”
Young, Newel K. "Stepping Stones." Juvenile Instructor. October 1921. pg. 522-523.
Stepping Stones
Newel K. Young
xiii.—manly honor (Concluded).
The Man: John Henry Smith
"Be thou strong and show thyself a man."—King David to his son Solomon.
"My strength is as the strength of ten, because my heart is pure."—Tennyson.
"Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God."—Jesus.
I have been told that a strange gentleman came into the Bureau of Information one day and asked Brother Goddard if he knew whether John Henry was in town. Quite naturally Brother Goddard resented hearing one of the Presidency of the Church, a man beloved and honored by all Israel, referred to with familiar use of his given name.
So he rejoined, "To what John Henry do you refer? There are many John Henrys."
"No," replied this stranger, "there is only one John Henry."
Brother Goddard phoned Brother Smith, giving him the name of the inquirer. Brother Smith came immediately to meet and take possession of his friend. Upon Brother Smith's arrival they embraced and greeted each other affectionately. This man I am told was one of the great and good men of our country. He was right. There was only one John Henry —a man beloved by all who knew him, and affectionately and reverently spoken of by his given name.
It was more the man than the story he told, I suspect, that impressed me so deeply in my youth with this memorable lesson in manly honor.
It was during one of his visits to our "Mormon" colonies in Mexico that Brother John Henry Smith told the following story:
I think it was at one of our mining congresses or conventions that Apostle Smith met a German gentleman and scholar—an expert minerologist. But what really counted was that he was a man. Of course when he and John Henry met they took to each other.
"But there is neither East nor West, Border, nor Breed, or Birth,
When two strong men stand face to face, though they come from the ends of the Earth."—Kipling.
This man, with his seventy years and white hair and beard, stood straight and strong and vigorous. He was more than six feet tall, perfectly proportioned, mind and body both seemingly in their prime. The man's business or profession had taken him into every great mining region of the world. Since he was nineteen years old he had spent his life in and about these mining camps.
Evil in all its forms had been about him; sin with its every phase and expression had beckoned him ; temptation with every possible color and tone and appeal had crossed his path and followed his footsteps; life with all its music and grace and beauty had loitered along his way enticing him to taste its promised sweets and enter into its charming and charmed domain.
But here he stood with his seventy years behind him, clean and sweet. With manhood's wisdom and strength he carried the pure heart of a child.
After graduating from the university at the age of nineteen he had gone to South America to begin his life's career. When he took his little mother in his arms to tell her goodbye, she gripped his shoulders and searching his face and soul with her keen, penetrating eyes she asked,
"Are you clean, my boy?"
"Yes, mother, I come to you after my years at the university as clean as when you taught me my prayer at your knee."
Then kissing his lips, she said, "When you return as clean and pure as you go away you may kiss my lips. But if you lose your honor—your purity—if your lips are even tainted with one unholy kiss, they are never to touch mine. Do you understand, my boy?"
"Yes, mother!"
After spending many years in the mining camps of the world he returned home.
"Are your hand and heart and lips clean, son?"
"As when I left you, mother."
Again, after long years, he had returned to his mother in the very evening of her life. In answer to her searching eyes and feeble question he could reply, "I return to you with the purity and modesty of a boy, not one unholy kiss has tainted my lips."
As the old woman kissed her son the tears ran down her thin, worn face. He remained with his mother to the end, closing her eyes and folding her hands in death.
As he pressed his lips to hers in their last goodbye she said, "When you come home to me beyond you will come with hand, and lips, and heart, clean and sweet my boy?"
"Yes, mother."
"Mr. Smith," said he, "when I go to my mother in the great beyond, my hands and lips and' heart shall be untainted with one unholy touch or kiss."
From the mouth and heart of another this simple tale may -not have moved me, and burned itself into my heart to live there. But from Brother John Henry Smith it was a great lesson. To me he was a man of honor — imaging, embodying all that the story teaches.
Stepping Stones
Newel K. Young
xiii.—manly honor (Concluded).
The Man: John Henry Smith
"Be thou strong and show thyself a man."—King David to his son Solomon.
"My strength is as the strength of ten, because my heart is pure."—Tennyson.
"Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God."—Jesus.
I have been told that a strange gentleman came into the Bureau of Information one day and asked Brother Goddard if he knew whether John Henry was in town. Quite naturally Brother Goddard resented hearing one of the Presidency of the Church, a man beloved and honored by all Israel, referred to with familiar use of his given name.
So he rejoined, "To what John Henry do you refer? There are many John Henrys."
"No," replied this stranger, "there is only one John Henry."
Brother Goddard phoned Brother Smith, giving him the name of the inquirer. Brother Smith came immediately to meet and take possession of his friend. Upon Brother Smith's arrival they embraced and greeted each other affectionately. This man I am told was one of the great and good men of our country. He was right. There was only one John Henry —a man beloved by all who knew him, and affectionately and reverently spoken of by his given name.
It was more the man than the story he told, I suspect, that impressed me so deeply in my youth with this memorable lesson in manly honor.
It was during one of his visits to our "Mormon" colonies in Mexico that Brother John Henry Smith told the following story:
I think it was at one of our mining congresses or conventions that Apostle Smith met a German gentleman and scholar—an expert minerologist. But what really counted was that he was a man. Of course when he and John Henry met they took to each other.
"But there is neither East nor West, Border, nor Breed, or Birth,
When two strong men stand face to face, though they come from the ends of the Earth."—Kipling.
This man, with his seventy years and white hair and beard, stood straight and strong and vigorous. He was more than six feet tall, perfectly proportioned, mind and body both seemingly in their prime. The man's business or profession had taken him into every great mining region of the world. Since he was nineteen years old he had spent his life in and about these mining camps.
Evil in all its forms had been about him; sin with its every phase and expression had beckoned him ; temptation with every possible color and tone and appeal had crossed his path and followed his footsteps; life with all its music and grace and beauty had loitered along his way enticing him to taste its promised sweets and enter into its charming and charmed domain.
But here he stood with his seventy years behind him, clean and sweet. With manhood's wisdom and strength he carried the pure heart of a child.
After graduating from the university at the age of nineteen he had gone to South America to begin his life's career. When he took his little mother in his arms to tell her goodbye, she gripped his shoulders and searching his face and soul with her keen, penetrating eyes she asked,
"Are you clean, my boy?"
"Yes, mother, I come to you after my years at the university as clean as when you taught me my prayer at your knee."
Then kissing his lips, she said, "When you return as clean and pure as you go away you may kiss my lips. But if you lose your honor—your purity—if your lips are even tainted with one unholy kiss, they are never to touch mine. Do you understand, my boy?"
"Yes, mother!"
After spending many years in the mining camps of the world he returned home.
"Are your hand and heart and lips clean, son?"
"As when I left you, mother."
Again, after long years, he had returned to his mother in the very evening of her life. In answer to her searching eyes and feeble question he could reply, "I return to you with the purity and modesty of a boy, not one unholy kiss has tainted my lips."
As the old woman kissed her son the tears ran down her thin, worn face. He remained with his mother to the end, closing her eyes and folding her hands in death.
As he pressed his lips to hers in their last goodbye she said, "When you come home to me beyond you will come with hand, and lips, and heart, clean and sweet my boy?"
"Yes, mother."
"Mr. Smith," said he, "when I go to my mother in the great beyond, my hands and lips and' heart shall be untainted with one unholy touch or kiss."
From the mouth and heart of another this simple tale may -not have moved me, and burned itself into my heart to live there. But from Brother John Henry Smith it was a great lesson. To me he was a man of honor — imaging, embodying all that the story teaches.
John Henry Smith
“… putting on the breastplate of faith and love;
and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.”
-1 Thessalonians 5:8
and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.”
-1 Thessalonians 5:8
Ordained: 27 October 1880 at age 32 by John Taylor
Biography
John Henry Smith was born 18 September 1848 across the river from Winter Quarters, Nebraska in Kanesville (Council Bluffs), Iowa. His parents were Apostle George A. Smith and Sarah Ann Libby. His family moved to the Salt Lake Valley a year after his birth. His mother had been an invalid for several years and passed away in June 1851, before John Henry’s third birthday. At that time, John Henry, her only child, was placed in the care of Sarah’s sister, Hannah Maria, who was also one of George A. Smith’s wives. She raised him as if he were her own child and he loved her as a mother. He was also very close to one of her children, Charles Warren, who was only a few months younger than John Henry, growing up almost as twins. John Henry always attributed any success of his to the constant watchcare and teachings of his aunt.
He later said, “Very much of course depends upon the mother's influence, for when a mother is determined to have her sons and daughters grow up in the knowledge of letters, and a knowledge of the truth, they will certainly do so, and grow up to be honored among mankind.” (Smith, The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 1881, 294)
John Henry Smith received his patriarchal blessing at the age of three and a half by his grandfather and Church Patriarch, John Smith, which he read often and used as a guide for his life. He was baptized on his eighth birthday by his father and was raised and attended school in Provo, Utah.
As a boy, he spent much of his time herding cattle along the shore of the Utah Lake. He was large for his age, and was known in boyhood for being friendly and good-natured, full of life and fun.
When he was 13, John Henry was saved from a nearly fatal accident in a miraculous manner. In June 1862, he was trying to cross the Provo River in a small boat together with two friends of his. The water was high and turbulent. The boat capsized in the stream and John Henry became entangled in driftwood and spent some time below the water's surface. Those who witnessed the event thought that he had drowned. At that exact moment, his father, Elder George A. Smith, who was many miles away in Salt Lake City at the time, had a strong impression that his son was in danger and he needed to pray for him. He did so immediately. Suddenly, as by an unseen hand, John Henry was lifted onto the bank of the river unharmed.
As a youth, John Henry aspired to be a great public speaker. The Juvenile Instructor related:
When he was a boy there were not many opportunities for acquiring the art of public speaking, such as young people have today. His first effort at preaching would be called a failure. He said but a very few words which were not particularly edifying nor convincing, only so far as they convinced him and his hearers that there was something for him to learn before he could expect to become a public speaker. But he did not give up because he failed of success in the first effort. He continued to make attempts when opportunity afforded, and willingly responded when called upon to address public assemblies. In time he became an eloquent and impressive speaker, and was regarded as an accomplished orator. But the force of his oratory was from the honesty of his convictions more than from a display of flowery language. He earnestly believed in what he said, and was free to express plainly what he did believe. (Parry, President John Henry Smith 1911, 629-630)
John Henry was ever aware of his noble heritage, being descended from a Church Patriarch and Apostle, as well as cousin to Prophets and Apostles. As a young man, he once called upon Colonel Thomas L. Kane, politically active abolitionist and defender of the Church to Washington, who said to him, “Young man, I trust that you will ever remember that the best blood of the nineteenth century flows in your veins.” (Parry, President John Henry Smith 1911, 630)
On 20 October 1866, at the age of 18, he married Sarah Farr.
When only 19 years of age, John Henry was called as a counselor in a bishopric. As a career, he worked for the Central Pacific Railway, followed by the Utah Central Railway, aiding with the laying of 200 miles of rail. At the completion of the railroad, he was offered a good position in California, but turned it down to fulfill his father's wish of returning to Salt Lake City with him. His close association with his father also afforded him a chance to get acquainted with many prominent men of the community.
He also started his political career at a young age. He worked as assistant clerk of the house of representatives of the Utah Legislature in 1872, and was also assistant clerk of the Constitutional Convention held that year.
In the summer of 1874, John Henry was called to the European Mission. His second cousin, Joseph F. Smith, was then serving as mission president and John Henry was called as a traveling Elder, visiting Denmark, Germany, Switzerland, and France in company with Joseph F. Smith, Francis M. Lyman and others.
He was called home suddenly in August of 1875 because his father, George A. Smith was gravely ill. He arrived home in time to spend 15 days at his ill father’s bedside before his death on 1 September 1875.
Two months later, John Henry was called as bishop of his home ward (Salt Lake City 17th Ward).
Ever interested in politics, John Henry served in several political positions during his lifetime. In February 1876, he was elected to the Salt Lake City Council, serving two 6-year terms in this position. In August 1881, he was elected a member of the Territorial Legislature and served several times as a delegate to the Irrigation and the Trans-Mississippi congresses, once even being elected president of the Trans-Mississippi congress. In contrast to Moses Thatcher, John Henry Smith was an active Republican.
On 4 April 1877, ten and a half years after his first marriage, John Henry married Josephine Groesbeck.
John Henry Smith was called as an apostle at the October 1880 general conference at the same time as Elder Francis M. Lyman. Because of Elder Lyman’s absence, they weren’t ordained until the end of that month.
At the time of his call, Elder Smith felt uncertain of himself and sought a testimony that his call to the apostleship was from God. He offered a silent prayer that if that were the case, that Wilford Woodruff be the one to ordain him. The day of his ordination, the lot indeed fell upon President Woodruff to act as mouth in his ordination, and Elder Smith took this as a direct answer to his prayer and evidence that the Lord had indeed chosen him as apostle.
From the date of his ordination until his death in 1911, Elder John Henry Smith spent nearly all of his time devoted to public labors. He visited many of the stakes of Zion, attended conferences, instructed and encouraged the Saints, and organized stakes and wards. He traveled extensively throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico visiting various missions of the Church.
From 1882 to 1884, Elder John Henry Smith served as president of the European Mission. As part of this call, he traveled extensively in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, visiting also the Isle of Man, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, France, Germany, Switzerland and Italy. Following his return, he shared several experiences from the mission in General Conference and explained that a serious anti-Mormon sentiment was hindering the work at that time.
Upon his return, he was arrested under the Edmund’s Act for unlawful cohabitation but was discharged for lack of evidence. Of his imprisonment and the times in general, he said:
Every fiber of my being is convinced of the truth of this Gospel. It is stamped upon every feature, upon every part of my being. I regard it as dearer than life and everything else upon the face of the earth. Why need I be fearful, why need I tremble, why need I be wrought up at the prospect that is before us? … Who cannot stand a few weeks of imprisonment, a few months of torture, a few years of difficulty, that they may offer an offering in righteousness to that God that called them forth? Not one of us. … It is possible that a few men like myself may be hustled within prison walls; it is possible that a few “Mormons” may be outraged and banished from their native land; it is possible that men may follow us to the death; but while men die, systems continue to live and grow, and the powers of earth and hell can never check their advancement and development. (Volume 26 1885, 174-182)
This despite his statement that, “If there is any one thing in this world above another that I prize it is my liberty – liberty to speak, liberty to act, liberty to move among my fellows, discharging the duties and obligations of life without regard to the frowns or favors of anybody in the world.” (Volume 26 1885, 276-281)
In 1891 there was some discussion of Elder Smith serving as president of the Ogden Standard, but was eventually decided against. The First Presidency and other apostles expressed concern about political issues arising with Elder John Henry Smith being such an active republican, and with a weakening of his general influence among members of the church.
Despite political differences, he worked very closely with Elder Moses Thatcher endeavoring to stop the Edmunds anti-polygamy bill and to work for the admission of Utah as a state. The two of them as well as George Q. Cannon traveled to Washington DC several times as part of these efforts.
In March 1895, he was chosen president of the Constitutional Convention which formed the constitution under which Utah was admitted as a state in January 1896.
In fact, Elder John Henry Smith's political involvement caused a lot of trouble between the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve with Elder Moses Thatcher. Elder Smith was politically involved with the approval of the First Presidency. Elder Thatcher was also politically involved and the Brethren requested that he remove himself from politics, which he refused to do, eventually causing the removal of Elder Thatcher from the Quorum.
Elder Thatcher often compared his own political involvement to that of Elder Smith and felt cheated by their different treatment. The real difference, however, was in their different attitudes to counsel. Elder Smith made it clear that if the First Presidency did not approve of his political involvement, he would remove himself from politics. Elder Thatcher refused to be counseled and this refusal caused him to be removed from the Quorum.
Fellow Apostle Elder Abraham H. Cannon recorded in his journal:
John Henry Smith next told of the way in which he had become mixed up in politics, and of the work he had been doing. If it had not been for his labors he said we might every one have been disfranchised by this time. … He [John Henry] said he had been called by the Lord to this work, and he knew the Lord would eventually vindicate him. After some further talk as to what he had done and was doing Bro. Lyman moved that we approve the course which John Henry has been taking. … If John Henry is doing any good … we all felt to give him our blessing. (Lyman 2010, January 12, 1892)
After all his efforts in politics, Elder John Henry Smith recommenced his ecclesiastical efforts in 1899 by making a tour of the Southern States Mission. The following year, Elders George Q. Cannon and John Henry Smith both testified at a meeting in the Salt Lake Temple that they had seen Jesus Christ.
In 1901, Elder John Henry Smith, along with fellow apostle Elder Anthony W. Ivins, reopened the Mexican Mission, which had been closed to missionary work since 1888.
In 1903, Elder Smith had the privilege of witnessing the calling of his son, George Albert Smith, to the Quorum of the Twelve. This was the first and only time that a father and son served simultaneously as members of the Quorum of the Twelve. Any other father-son teams[a] serving simultaneously as general authorities were initiated while the father was serving in the First Presidency.
After the death of President John R. Winder, Elder John Henry Smith was called as second counselor in the First Presidency to his second cousin, President Joseph F. Smith. He was sustained 6 April 1910.
Late in life he served as a member of the board of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association, as well as a member of the State Capitol Commission and director in several large business corporations. It was said of him that he visited every stake of Zion in the course of his ministry and many of them several times.
He died unexpectedly 13 October 1911 of a pulmonary embolism (bleeding in the lungs). The afternoon before his death, he had delivered a powerful speech on charity and forgiveness of the enemies of the Church. It was a principle that he lived.
Quotes
Elder John Henry Smith often referred to and bore his testimony in his talks. It was something he enjoyed and even felt called upon to do. He had an unquestioning, childlike faith, which often showed through when bearing his testimony. For example, he said, “To me it has always appeared singular that there should be any reflecting honest-hearted person unable to believe in the mission of Joseph Smith.” (Volume 26 1885, 276-281)
Elder John Henry Smith had a unique perspective on the Apostles and Prophets, having met most of them in his lifetime, and he bore this testimony of them and of the gospel:
Standing before you, my brethren and sisters, as one of the witnesses of the mission of the Redeemer of the world, and of the restored truths of the Gospel given in the day and age in which we live, I bear this record in your presence today. I have grown from childhood to manhood in connection with these leading men of the Church of Christ. I knew Brigham Young as intimately as a boy could know his father. I knew John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, Lorenzo Snow, in like manner. I have been as intimate with President Joseph F. Smith as kinsman could be. Standing here as a witness before God today, I solemnly declare that I have never received one item of instruction from these men and from the Council of the Apostles—those of the old school as well as those of the present school—that did not breathe words of life, words of encouragement, words of loyalty and devotion to every element of true manhood. (Smith 1904, 27)
Elder Smith could, like Paul, say, “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ.” And he did so on several occasions.
It has been my experience thus far in life that there is nothing in connection with this work for which any man in the world need blush. There has been no revelation given to the Prophet for which we should have the least feeling of regret or concern. There is nothing within these statute books given by our heavenly Father for which I, as one of His sons, need blush. On the contrary, I honor Him for giving the same, and purpose in the fulfillment of life's mission, if He will give me faith and fortitude so to do, to raise my voice in their defense, and to stand for the advancement and spreading of this work, as I know it came from Him. (Smith 1905, 14)
He also had faith in more than just the gospel, but also in the members themselves. Having been unable to attend some sessions of conference, he once only attended the final session and said the following:
With you, I want to endorse the resolutions that it is said you passed here yesterday. I did not read them, but I take it for granted that the common sense of the Latter-day Saints, and their faith in the Supreme Being, lead them to decide upon their movements and purpose in harmony with such suggestions as may come from our presiding authorities, looking to the betterment of the human race—not alone the problems of our own advancement, the uplifting and upbuilding of that system we love so well, but the betterment of our great country, that its citizenship may be improved by our aid and suggestions. (Smith 1908, 70)
He also had great faith in the blessings he could receive from the prayers of the Saints. “I ask for the faith and prayers of the congregation. I am laboring under the disadvantage of a severe cold, but I realize that the prayers of the Saints avail much in the interest of any of our Father's children.” (Smith, The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 1888, 738)
He often spoke without planning exactly what he wanted to say or even the topic of his talks at general conference, which was quite common in the day, relying instead upon faith. He said, “I have no subject upon my mind at this moment, but I trust that the suggestions of the Spirit may point out the direction in which I should go, that I may be enabled to touch upon some subject or other that shall be of interest to you.” (Smith 1897, 13)
The following is his final testimony given at the last general conference he attended before his death less than two weeks later.
May you be enabled to say, as you point to the head of this work, “There stands the man God selected; here is the Church organization Jesus established, unbroken from the day it was fixed by the Prophet of the Lord, and God said it never would be taken from the earth or given to another people.” It will never be given to this little organization, or that little party withdrawing from this work. Here stands this organization true to God, true to the principles He has announced, true to every requirement placed upon their shoulders, as men have ever been true to the obligations placed upon them.
My brothers and my sisters, I am happy to be with you. I rejoice in the knowledge of the truth of this work, and bear my witness, in connection with my brethren, of its place and purpose and mission in the world, and to say that the men who speak of its overthrow, its displacement, its failure to accomplish its mission, are dreaming myths, for this work will not fail. God has decreed its success, and it is to become the joy of the race. (Smith 1911, 19)
In addition to a powerful testimony, Elder Smith spoke several times on the obligation parents have toward their children.
My brothers and my sisters, I ask you to think upon this problem of the proper care of our children. Let us instil into the minds of our young people, who are entering upon the duties of life a proper understanding and regard for the sacredness of those obligations, that they may duly recognize the principles of virtue, honesty, integrity, honor, devotion to the right, industry, perseverance and unyielding courage, with resolutions fixed upon the uplifting and upbuilding of the race, the betterment of the whole world. (Smith 1909, 118)
Elder John Henry Smith was also a very patriotic person. He loved his country and his state and was proud of his heritage. He shared his love of country and state whenever possible.
I have been reared among the Latter-day Saints. My father and mother were as old in citizenship of the United States and as honorable in their ancestry as any that can be found in the land. I love my religion, I love my country, and I have no other desire than to honor my God, and do good to my fellow man. (Volume 26 1885, 276-281)
While in distant lands I have had joy in gazing upon the stars and stripes as they have floated on the breeze from the mast heads of American vessels, or wherever my eye has happened to see the flag of our country. I have honored and revered my parents who, in harmony with their convictions, taught me to obey the laws of the land; and I trust ever to be found true to my country, and true to my religion and my God. (Volume 26 1885, 276-281)
I have an especial pride in the development of this goodly land. I recognize the Bee Hive State as the best in the world; her sons and daughters are among the most industrious, the most unflinching and determined of men and women in the accomplishment of the responsibilities and duties of life. (Smith 1909, 24)
Elder Smith was called upon to preach repentance to the Saints several times. One of the topics he spoke to them about was observance of the Sabbath day.
He [John Henry Smith] believed that, as a people, the Latter-day Saints did not observe the Sabbath day with that strictness that they should. Many people tried to find excuses for doing this, that and the other thing upon the Sabbath day. … The speaker strongly urged upon the Latter-day Saints the fact that every person was responsible for his or her own acts, and asked all to at once examine themselves and repent of whatever was wrong. (Smith, The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 1886, 691)
In the same vein, he also spoke on the law of tithing.
Possibly no man has been so extreme in his judgment upon this matter as myself, under some circumstances; for in one of the Stakes of Zion some months ago, I presumed to say to the authorities of that Stake that if there was an officer there who was not prepared to accept the law of tithing, so far as I was concerned as a representative of the Presidency of this Church, I was there to accept his resignation. I believe upon this question that if there are presiding authorities in the Church of Christ who will not obey that law and fulfill its obligations, their place is among the ranks, where they may be taught and instructed by some one willing to fulfill the law—a law which opens the doorway to the companionship of the just and the good in time to come. (Smith 1899, 32)
He abhorred idleness and felt that it would corrupt the people of God.
No man that is idle can be honest and virtuous and of use in the community. No woman that is an idler can be clean and sweet. No boy or girl left without employment can, by any manner of means, make a mark in life or accomplish good for himself or herself. Wherever they are found in idleness, simply employing themselves briefly, for a few moments, possibly, each day, putting on the clothes they may have, and then wandering the streets, they will, in a very brief period of time, be found with the mark of evil upon their faces. (Smith 1909, 23)
He was his own example when it came to missionary work. He related the following story in a general conference address.
But yesterday in passing from this building to my own home, I met a gentleman whose friendship I appreciate very highly, not a member of our Church; a man that I believe to be in the business world a man of perfect honor and integrity, a moral man. I met him upon the sidewalk. I put my arm around his shoulders, and said to him, "My friend, I believe I have the prize of prizes, that has been given of God to our Father's children. You and I have met in the business world for years and years; your treatment of me has been the treatment of a gentleman; I have respected and do respect you as a man of honor." "He says, "I have been a moral man, Mr. Smith, but I have not been a religious man, in the sense in which you religious men sometimes speak." Said I, "Look here, by and by this race will be run, and you and I will be on the other side. I do not want you to say to me on the other side, 'Mr. Smith, in that sphere yonder, you had the prize of prizes, and you never offered me an understanding of it.' I want to ask you as a matter of friendship—for I believe that I have the truth—that you will make it in your way to visit the religious services of the Latter-day Saints. Seek to receive of their spirit and to comprehend that which they are engaged in." He promised me that he would, and I believe he will. As to the impressions that the Almighty may make upon his mind as he shall listen to the words that may be spoken by the Elders of the Church, it is not for me to determine. His spirit must be in that condition that the spirits of some of you were in in times past when you drank in of the truth; but if his spirit does drink in of the truth, I believe him to be of that mould that means and abilities would be utilized by him for the accomplishment of that which in his honor he believed was true. (Smith 1901, 40-41)
Elder Smith was very proud of the legacy his parents left him. He felt privileged to have been born to members of the Church. He said that he hadn’t suffered much tribulation in his lifetime. He said that he “had been taught in the principles of the Gospel from infancy, and they had become part of his life.” (Smith, The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 1887, 690)
Of his character, it was said of him:
The character of John Henry Smith is a fine study for every young man; and from it one can gain valuable lessons. It requires no very close acquaintance to understand his disposition, for in it there is no element of deceit or artfulness. The motives by which he is actuated may be read in his open countenance and easy, natural and unassuming manner. He is straightforward in all his actions—never being guilty of any double-dealing—and is always outspoken and candid in expressing his sentiments. He possesses courage of the highest type—a fearlessness born of the assurance that he is in the right. These qualities impress all people with whom he comes in contact that he is sincere in his convictions whether or not they agree with his ideas. He is of a happy disposition, always hopeful, and he takes the most cheerful view of conditions that may confront him, no matter how discouraging the aspect may be. He is quick to discern and appreciate the good qualities of others, is ever thoughtful regarding their welfare, and is broad-minded in his views. He possesses the same good qualities of heart as of mind, and he is liberal almost to a fault. (Parry, Lives of Our Leaders--The Apostles. John Henry Smith. 1900, 324-325)
At the occasion of his death, the Juvenile Instructor said of him:
His exceptional ability to make friends and to create harmony among contending parties made him a great power for good in the community; and yet the secret of his success in this line was his tolerance, his love of justice and the kindness which he was ever willing to extend to all parties. (Parry, President John Henry Smith 1911, 630)
Fellow Apostle and later President of the Church, Elder David O. McKay, wrote this tribute of him:
Large in stature, dignified in appearance, magnanimous in spirit, pure and generous in thought, word and deed, charitable even to his enemy, if he ever had one, President John Henry seemed to merit in its fullest sense all that is included in the term A Great Man.
He was unselfish. His personal interests were always second to the public welfare. Altruistic in his nature, he was never happier than when he was making somebody else happy. To say a kind word or to do a noble deed was his constant desire. No child was too insignificant, no person too poor, to receive of the comforting light from his benevolent soul. … Every truly great man, like the Man of Nazareth, has possessed a nature that yearned for the betterment and salvation of his fellowmen. Such a soul was President John Henry Smith’s. He was as charitable towards the faults of his fellowmen as he was unselfish. The last speech I heard him make, delivered on the afternoon of his last day on earth, breathed forth charity and forgiveness for one who has persecuted the servants of God.
He was a lover of home. He looked upon the home as the unit of the state, the safeguard of the nation. As a husband he was devoted and true; as a father, tender and affectionate. If fault he had in family matters (and he, like all men, had his failings) it was a spirit of leniency with his children; but be it said to their credit, they have been too noble, and too appreciative of their father’s tender solicitude, to take advantage of his loving indulgence. He taught his families correct principles and they governed themselves. In his mind there was but one standard of virtue for boys and girls—both should conserve their virtue and protect their chastity, as they would guard their lives….
There was no greater advocate of liberty to be found anywhere than our beloved, patriotic, Brother John Henry. Nearly every speech he delivered breathed forth the spirit of personal liberty and national patriotism. Born in the midst of a persecution that drove his parents from their home in Nauvoo after the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph and the Patriarch Hyrum, his father’s cousin, he seemed to have absorbed into his very being right from babyhood, an antipathy and hatred for oppression and persecution. He was a true statesman and an ardent defender of the Constitution of the United States.
As a worthy apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, he ever bore testimony to the divinity of the Savior’s mission, and of the restoration of the Gospel through the Prophet Joseph Smith. He was never known to make an apology for his belief in the Church of Jesus Christ; and though his membership in national Congresses and his interest in national affairs brought him almost constantly in contact with men of all creeds and of no creeds, every one knew that John Henry Smith believed in Mormonism, so called, and in its ultimate triumph in redeeming the world. His strength and fearlessness in living up to his beliefs, and obeying the teachings of the Church, anywhere and under all conditions, won him friends in all circles. He sought first “the kingdom of God and His righteousness”, and all other things were added to him. A willing servant to the Church like his Master of old, he was ever ready to say, “Father, Thy will, not mine be done.” (McKay 1911, 640-641)
Conclusion
What kind of a man was Elder John Henry Smith? He was a man of unquestioning faith. He was contented to live where he was. He was obedient to every call he received. He was humble and teachable, even childlike. He loved people and wanted them to enjoy the blessings of the gospel that he enjoyed.
He was truly a man of the people and worked with them all the days of his life. In his day, many laws needed to be changed and he rolled up his sleeves and had a hand in changing them to what they are today. He was a tireless worker, a loyal friend, a forgiving man. He had faith not only in God, but also in his fellow man. He was constantly friendly and kind to all around him and valued the individual more than any worldly goods that could be obtained on earth.
He felt called to be a leader not only in the church, but also in politics and did his best to step up to the expectations laid upon him. He was a man anyone could be proud to emulate.
n.d. Ancestral File. Accessed June 17, 2015. https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/2:1:M7XW-6N4.
2003. Church History in the Fulness of Times, Student Manual. Salt Lake City: Church Educational System Curriculum.
Lyman, Edward Leo. 2010. Candid Insights of a Mormon Apostle: The Diaries of Abraham H. Cannon, 1889-1895. Kindle Edition. Salt Lake City: Signature Books.
McKay, David O. 1911. "Editorial Thoughts: A Great Man Has Left Us." The Juvenile Instructor, November: 640-641.
Parry, Edwin F. 1900. "Lives of Our Leaders--The Apostles. John Henry Smith." The Juvenile Instructor, June 1: 321-325.
—. 1911. "President John Henry Smith." The Juvenile Instructor, November: 627-630.
Roberts, B. H. n.d. Comprehensive History of the Church. Kindle Edition. Librainia.
Smith, John Henry. 1897. Sixty-Eighth Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: Deseret News Publishing Company. 13-16.
—. 1899. Seventieth Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 29-33.
—. 1901. Seventy-First Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 38-42.
—. 1904. Seventy-Fifth Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 25-28.
—. 1905. Seventy-Sixth Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 12-15.
—. 1908. Seventy-Ninth Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 69-71.
—. 1909. The 79th Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 116-118.
—. 1909. The Eightieth Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 21-26.
—. 1911. Eighty-Second Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 16-19.
—. 1901. "Saved From Drowning Through a Father's Prayer." The Juvenile Instructor, September 1: 516.
—. 1881. The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star, May 9: 294.
—. 1886. The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star, November 1: 691.
—. 1887. The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star, October 31: 690-691.
—. 1888. The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star, November 19: 738-740.
The Improvement Era. 1911. "Some of the Activities of President John Henry Smith." November: 59.
1885. "Volume 26." In The Complete Journal of Discourses: Latter-Day Saint Reference Edition.
[a] Brigham Young and Brigham Young, Jr.; John Taylor and John W. Taylor; George Q. Cannon and Abraham H. Cannon; Wilford Woodruff and Abraham O. Woodruff; Joseph F. Smith and Hyrum M. Smith; Joseph F. Smith and Joseph Fielding Smith
Biography
John Henry Smith was born 18 September 1848 across the river from Winter Quarters, Nebraska in Kanesville (Council Bluffs), Iowa. His parents were Apostle George A. Smith and Sarah Ann Libby. His family moved to the Salt Lake Valley a year after his birth. His mother had been an invalid for several years and passed away in June 1851, before John Henry’s third birthday. At that time, John Henry, her only child, was placed in the care of Sarah’s sister, Hannah Maria, who was also one of George A. Smith’s wives. She raised him as if he were her own child and he loved her as a mother. He was also very close to one of her children, Charles Warren, who was only a few months younger than John Henry, growing up almost as twins. John Henry always attributed any success of his to the constant watchcare and teachings of his aunt.
He later said, “Very much of course depends upon the mother's influence, for when a mother is determined to have her sons and daughters grow up in the knowledge of letters, and a knowledge of the truth, they will certainly do so, and grow up to be honored among mankind.” (Smith, The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 1881, 294)
John Henry Smith received his patriarchal blessing at the age of three and a half by his grandfather and Church Patriarch, John Smith, which he read often and used as a guide for his life. He was baptized on his eighth birthday by his father and was raised and attended school in Provo, Utah.
As a boy, he spent much of his time herding cattle along the shore of the Utah Lake. He was large for his age, and was known in boyhood for being friendly and good-natured, full of life and fun.
When he was 13, John Henry was saved from a nearly fatal accident in a miraculous manner. In June 1862, he was trying to cross the Provo River in a small boat together with two friends of his. The water was high and turbulent. The boat capsized in the stream and John Henry became entangled in driftwood and spent some time below the water's surface. Those who witnessed the event thought that he had drowned. At that exact moment, his father, Elder George A. Smith, who was many miles away in Salt Lake City at the time, had a strong impression that his son was in danger and he needed to pray for him. He did so immediately. Suddenly, as by an unseen hand, John Henry was lifted onto the bank of the river unharmed.
As a youth, John Henry aspired to be a great public speaker. The Juvenile Instructor related:
When he was a boy there were not many opportunities for acquiring the art of public speaking, such as young people have today. His first effort at preaching would be called a failure. He said but a very few words which were not particularly edifying nor convincing, only so far as they convinced him and his hearers that there was something for him to learn before he could expect to become a public speaker. But he did not give up because he failed of success in the first effort. He continued to make attempts when opportunity afforded, and willingly responded when called upon to address public assemblies. In time he became an eloquent and impressive speaker, and was regarded as an accomplished orator. But the force of his oratory was from the honesty of his convictions more than from a display of flowery language. He earnestly believed in what he said, and was free to express plainly what he did believe. (Parry, President John Henry Smith 1911, 629-630)
John Henry was ever aware of his noble heritage, being descended from a Church Patriarch and Apostle, as well as cousin to Prophets and Apostles. As a young man, he once called upon Colonel Thomas L. Kane, politically active abolitionist and defender of the Church to Washington, who said to him, “Young man, I trust that you will ever remember that the best blood of the nineteenth century flows in your veins.” (Parry, President John Henry Smith 1911, 630)
On 20 October 1866, at the age of 18, he married Sarah Farr.
When only 19 years of age, John Henry was called as a counselor in a bishopric. As a career, he worked for the Central Pacific Railway, followed by the Utah Central Railway, aiding with the laying of 200 miles of rail. At the completion of the railroad, he was offered a good position in California, but turned it down to fulfill his father's wish of returning to Salt Lake City with him. His close association with his father also afforded him a chance to get acquainted with many prominent men of the community.
He also started his political career at a young age. He worked as assistant clerk of the house of representatives of the Utah Legislature in 1872, and was also assistant clerk of the Constitutional Convention held that year.
In the summer of 1874, John Henry was called to the European Mission. His second cousin, Joseph F. Smith, was then serving as mission president and John Henry was called as a traveling Elder, visiting Denmark, Germany, Switzerland, and France in company with Joseph F. Smith, Francis M. Lyman and others.
He was called home suddenly in August of 1875 because his father, George A. Smith was gravely ill. He arrived home in time to spend 15 days at his ill father’s bedside before his death on 1 September 1875.
Two months later, John Henry was called as bishop of his home ward (Salt Lake City 17th Ward).
Ever interested in politics, John Henry served in several political positions during his lifetime. In February 1876, he was elected to the Salt Lake City Council, serving two 6-year terms in this position. In August 1881, he was elected a member of the Territorial Legislature and served several times as a delegate to the Irrigation and the Trans-Mississippi congresses, once even being elected president of the Trans-Mississippi congress. In contrast to Moses Thatcher, John Henry Smith was an active Republican.
On 4 April 1877, ten and a half years after his first marriage, John Henry married Josephine Groesbeck.
John Henry Smith was called as an apostle at the October 1880 general conference at the same time as Elder Francis M. Lyman. Because of Elder Lyman’s absence, they weren’t ordained until the end of that month.
At the time of his call, Elder Smith felt uncertain of himself and sought a testimony that his call to the apostleship was from God. He offered a silent prayer that if that were the case, that Wilford Woodruff be the one to ordain him. The day of his ordination, the lot indeed fell upon President Woodruff to act as mouth in his ordination, and Elder Smith took this as a direct answer to his prayer and evidence that the Lord had indeed chosen him as apostle.
From the date of his ordination until his death in 1911, Elder John Henry Smith spent nearly all of his time devoted to public labors. He visited many of the stakes of Zion, attended conferences, instructed and encouraged the Saints, and organized stakes and wards. He traveled extensively throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico visiting various missions of the Church.
From 1882 to 1884, Elder John Henry Smith served as president of the European Mission. As part of this call, he traveled extensively in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, visiting also the Isle of Man, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, France, Germany, Switzerland and Italy. Following his return, he shared several experiences from the mission in General Conference and explained that a serious anti-Mormon sentiment was hindering the work at that time.
Upon his return, he was arrested under the Edmund’s Act for unlawful cohabitation but was discharged for lack of evidence. Of his imprisonment and the times in general, he said:
Every fiber of my being is convinced of the truth of this Gospel. It is stamped upon every feature, upon every part of my being. I regard it as dearer than life and everything else upon the face of the earth. Why need I be fearful, why need I tremble, why need I be wrought up at the prospect that is before us? … Who cannot stand a few weeks of imprisonment, a few months of torture, a few years of difficulty, that they may offer an offering in righteousness to that God that called them forth? Not one of us. … It is possible that a few men like myself may be hustled within prison walls; it is possible that a few “Mormons” may be outraged and banished from their native land; it is possible that men may follow us to the death; but while men die, systems continue to live and grow, and the powers of earth and hell can never check their advancement and development. (Volume 26 1885, 174-182)
This despite his statement that, “If there is any one thing in this world above another that I prize it is my liberty – liberty to speak, liberty to act, liberty to move among my fellows, discharging the duties and obligations of life without regard to the frowns or favors of anybody in the world.” (Volume 26 1885, 276-281)
In 1891 there was some discussion of Elder Smith serving as president of the Ogden Standard, but was eventually decided against. The First Presidency and other apostles expressed concern about political issues arising with Elder John Henry Smith being such an active republican, and with a weakening of his general influence among members of the church.
Despite political differences, he worked very closely with Elder Moses Thatcher endeavoring to stop the Edmunds anti-polygamy bill and to work for the admission of Utah as a state. The two of them as well as George Q. Cannon traveled to Washington DC several times as part of these efforts.
In March 1895, he was chosen president of the Constitutional Convention which formed the constitution under which Utah was admitted as a state in January 1896.
In fact, Elder John Henry Smith's political involvement caused a lot of trouble between the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve with Elder Moses Thatcher. Elder Smith was politically involved with the approval of the First Presidency. Elder Thatcher was also politically involved and the Brethren requested that he remove himself from politics, which he refused to do, eventually causing the removal of Elder Thatcher from the Quorum.
Elder Thatcher often compared his own political involvement to that of Elder Smith and felt cheated by their different treatment. The real difference, however, was in their different attitudes to counsel. Elder Smith made it clear that if the First Presidency did not approve of his political involvement, he would remove himself from politics. Elder Thatcher refused to be counseled and this refusal caused him to be removed from the Quorum.
Fellow Apostle Elder Abraham H. Cannon recorded in his journal:
John Henry Smith next told of the way in which he had become mixed up in politics, and of the work he had been doing. If it had not been for his labors he said we might every one have been disfranchised by this time. … He [John Henry] said he had been called by the Lord to this work, and he knew the Lord would eventually vindicate him. After some further talk as to what he had done and was doing Bro. Lyman moved that we approve the course which John Henry has been taking. … If John Henry is doing any good … we all felt to give him our blessing. (Lyman 2010, January 12, 1892)
After all his efforts in politics, Elder John Henry Smith recommenced his ecclesiastical efforts in 1899 by making a tour of the Southern States Mission. The following year, Elders George Q. Cannon and John Henry Smith both testified at a meeting in the Salt Lake Temple that they had seen Jesus Christ.
In 1901, Elder John Henry Smith, along with fellow apostle Elder Anthony W. Ivins, reopened the Mexican Mission, which had been closed to missionary work since 1888.
In 1903, Elder Smith had the privilege of witnessing the calling of his son, George Albert Smith, to the Quorum of the Twelve. This was the first and only time that a father and son served simultaneously as members of the Quorum of the Twelve. Any other father-son teams[a] serving simultaneously as general authorities were initiated while the father was serving in the First Presidency.
After the death of President John R. Winder, Elder John Henry Smith was called as second counselor in the First Presidency to his second cousin, President Joseph F. Smith. He was sustained 6 April 1910.
Late in life he served as a member of the board of the Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Association, as well as a member of the State Capitol Commission and director in several large business corporations. It was said of him that he visited every stake of Zion in the course of his ministry and many of them several times.
He died unexpectedly 13 October 1911 of a pulmonary embolism (bleeding in the lungs). The afternoon before his death, he had delivered a powerful speech on charity and forgiveness of the enemies of the Church. It was a principle that he lived.
Quotes
Elder John Henry Smith often referred to and bore his testimony in his talks. It was something he enjoyed and even felt called upon to do. He had an unquestioning, childlike faith, which often showed through when bearing his testimony. For example, he said, “To me it has always appeared singular that there should be any reflecting honest-hearted person unable to believe in the mission of Joseph Smith.” (Volume 26 1885, 276-281)
Elder John Henry Smith had a unique perspective on the Apostles and Prophets, having met most of them in his lifetime, and he bore this testimony of them and of the gospel:
Standing before you, my brethren and sisters, as one of the witnesses of the mission of the Redeemer of the world, and of the restored truths of the Gospel given in the day and age in which we live, I bear this record in your presence today. I have grown from childhood to manhood in connection with these leading men of the Church of Christ. I knew Brigham Young as intimately as a boy could know his father. I knew John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, Lorenzo Snow, in like manner. I have been as intimate with President Joseph F. Smith as kinsman could be. Standing here as a witness before God today, I solemnly declare that I have never received one item of instruction from these men and from the Council of the Apostles—those of the old school as well as those of the present school—that did not breathe words of life, words of encouragement, words of loyalty and devotion to every element of true manhood. (Smith 1904, 27)
Elder Smith could, like Paul, say, “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ.” And he did so on several occasions.
It has been my experience thus far in life that there is nothing in connection with this work for which any man in the world need blush. There has been no revelation given to the Prophet for which we should have the least feeling of regret or concern. There is nothing within these statute books given by our heavenly Father for which I, as one of His sons, need blush. On the contrary, I honor Him for giving the same, and purpose in the fulfillment of life's mission, if He will give me faith and fortitude so to do, to raise my voice in their defense, and to stand for the advancement and spreading of this work, as I know it came from Him. (Smith 1905, 14)
He also had faith in more than just the gospel, but also in the members themselves. Having been unable to attend some sessions of conference, he once only attended the final session and said the following:
With you, I want to endorse the resolutions that it is said you passed here yesterday. I did not read them, but I take it for granted that the common sense of the Latter-day Saints, and their faith in the Supreme Being, lead them to decide upon their movements and purpose in harmony with such suggestions as may come from our presiding authorities, looking to the betterment of the human race—not alone the problems of our own advancement, the uplifting and upbuilding of that system we love so well, but the betterment of our great country, that its citizenship may be improved by our aid and suggestions. (Smith 1908, 70)
He also had great faith in the blessings he could receive from the prayers of the Saints. “I ask for the faith and prayers of the congregation. I am laboring under the disadvantage of a severe cold, but I realize that the prayers of the Saints avail much in the interest of any of our Father's children.” (Smith, The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 1888, 738)
He often spoke without planning exactly what he wanted to say or even the topic of his talks at general conference, which was quite common in the day, relying instead upon faith. He said, “I have no subject upon my mind at this moment, but I trust that the suggestions of the Spirit may point out the direction in which I should go, that I may be enabled to touch upon some subject or other that shall be of interest to you.” (Smith 1897, 13)
The following is his final testimony given at the last general conference he attended before his death less than two weeks later.
May you be enabled to say, as you point to the head of this work, “There stands the man God selected; here is the Church organization Jesus established, unbroken from the day it was fixed by the Prophet of the Lord, and God said it never would be taken from the earth or given to another people.” It will never be given to this little organization, or that little party withdrawing from this work. Here stands this organization true to God, true to the principles He has announced, true to every requirement placed upon their shoulders, as men have ever been true to the obligations placed upon them.
My brothers and my sisters, I am happy to be with you. I rejoice in the knowledge of the truth of this work, and bear my witness, in connection with my brethren, of its place and purpose and mission in the world, and to say that the men who speak of its overthrow, its displacement, its failure to accomplish its mission, are dreaming myths, for this work will not fail. God has decreed its success, and it is to become the joy of the race. (Smith 1911, 19)
In addition to a powerful testimony, Elder Smith spoke several times on the obligation parents have toward their children.
My brothers and my sisters, I ask you to think upon this problem of the proper care of our children. Let us instil into the minds of our young people, who are entering upon the duties of life a proper understanding and regard for the sacredness of those obligations, that they may duly recognize the principles of virtue, honesty, integrity, honor, devotion to the right, industry, perseverance and unyielding courage, with resolutions fixed upon the uplifting and upbuilding of the race, the betterment of the whole world. (Smith 1909, 118)
Elder John Henry Smith was also a very patriotic person. He loved his country and his state and was proud of his heritage. He shared his love of country and state whenever possible.
I have been reared among the Latter-day Saints. My father and mother were as old in citizenship of the United States and as honorable in their ancestry as any that can be found in the land. I love my religion, I love my country, and I have no other desire than to honor my God, and do good to my fellow man. (Volume 26 1885, 276-281)
While in distant lands I have had joy in gazing upon the stars and stripes as they have floated on the breeze from the mast heads of American vessels, or wherever my eye has happened to see the flag of our country. I have honored and revered my parents who, in harmony with their convictions, taught me to obey the laws of the land; and I trust ever to be found true to my country, and true to my religion and my God. (Volume 26 1885, 276-281)
I have an especial pride in the development of this goodly land. I recognize the Bee Hive State as the best in the world; her sons and daughters are among the most industrious, the most unflinching and determined of men and women in the accomplishment of the responsibilities and duties of life. (Smith 1909, 24)
Elder Smith was called upon to preach repentance to the Saints several times. One of the topics he spoke to them about was observance of the Sabbath day.
He [John Henry Smith] believed that, as a people, the Latter-day Saints did not observe the Sabbath day with that strictness that they should. Many people tried to find excuses for doing this, that and the other thing upon the Sabbath day. … The speaker strongly urged upon the Latter-day Saints the fact that every person was responsible for his or her own acts, and asked all to at once examine themselves and repent of whatever was wrong. (Smith, The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 1886, 691)
In the same vein, he also spoke on the law of tithing.
Possibly no man has been so extreme in his judgment upon this matter as myself, under some circumstances; for in one of the Stakes of Zion some months ago, I presumed to say to the authorities of that Stake that if there was an officer there who was not prepared to accept the law of tithing, so far as I was concerned as a representative of the Presidency of this Church, I was there to accept his resignation. I believe upon this question that if there are presiding authorities in the Church of Christ who will not obey that law and fulfill its obligations, their place is among the ranks, where they may be taught and instructed by some one willing to fulfill the law—a law which opens the doorway to the companionship of the just and the good in time to come. (Smith 1899, 32)
He abhorred idleness and felt that it would corrupt the people of God.
No man that is idle can be honest and virtuous and of use in the community. No woman that is an idler can be clean and sweet. No boy or girl left without employment can, by any manner of means, make a mark in life or accomplish good for himself or herself. Wherever they are found in idleness, simply employing themselves briefly, for a few moments, possibly, each day, putting on the clothes they may have, and then wandering the streets, they will, in a very brief period of time, be found with the mark of evil upon their faces. (Smith 1909, 23)
He was his own example when it came to missionary work. He related the following story in a general conference address.
But yesterday in passing from this building to my own home, I met a gentleman whose friendship I appreciate very highly, not a member of our Church; a man that I believe to be in the business world a man of perfect honor and integrity, a moral man. I met him upon the sidewalk. I put my arm around his shoulders, and said to him, "My friend, I believe I have the prize of prizes, that has been given of God to our Father's children. You and I have met in the business world for years and years; your treatment of me has been the treatment of a gentleman; I have respected and do respect you as a man of honor." "He says, "I have been a moral man, Mr. Smith, but I have not been a religious man, in the sense in which you religious men sometimes speak." Said I, "Look here, by and by this race will be run, and you and I will be on the other side. I do not want you to say to me on the other side, 'Mr. Smith, in that sphere yonder, you had the prize of prizes, and you never offered me an understanding of it.' I want to ask you as a matter of friendship—for I believe that I have the truth—that you will make it in your way to visit the religious services of the Latter-day Saints. Seek to receive of their spirit and to comprehend that which they are engaged in." He promised me that he would, and I believe he will. As to the impressions that the Almighty may make upon his mind as he shall listen to the words that may be spoken by the Elders of the Church, it is not for me to determine. His spirit must be in that condition that the spirits of some of you were in in times past when you drank in of the truth; but if his spirit does drink in of the truth, I believe him to be of that mould that means and abilities would be utilized by him for the accomplishment of that which in his honor he believed was true. (Smith 1901, 40-41)
Elder Smith was very proud of the legacy his parents left him. He felt privileged to have been born to members of the Church. He said that he hadn’t suffered much tribulation in his lifetime. He said that he “had been taught in the principles of the Gospel from infancy, and they had become part of his life.” (Smith, The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 1887, 690)
Of his character, it was said of him:
The character of John Henry Smith is a fine study for every young man; and from it one can gain valuable lessons. It requires no very close acquaintance to understand his disposition, for in it there is no element of deceit or artfulness. The motives by which he is actuated may be read in his open countenance and easy, natural and unassuming manner. He is straightforward in all his actions—never being guilty of any double-dealing—and is always outspoken and candid in expressing his sentiments. He possesses courage of the highest type—a fearlessness born of the assurance that he is in the right. These qualities impress all people with whom he comes in contact that he is sincere in his convictions whether or not they agree with his ideas. He is of a happy disposition, always hopeful, and he takes the most cheerful view of conditions that may confront him, no matter how discouraging the aspect may be. He is quick to discern and appreciate the good qualities of others, is ever thoughtful regarding their welfare, and is broad-minded in his views. He possesses the same good qualities of heart as of mind, and he is liberal almost to a fault. (Parry, Lives of Our Leaders--The Apostles. John Henry Smith. 1900, 324-325)
At the occasion of his death, the Juvenile Instructor said of him:
His exceptional ability to make friends and to create harmony among contending parties made him a great power for good in the community; and yet the secret of his success in this line was his tolerance, his love of justice and the kindness which he was ever willing to extend to all parties. (Parry, President John Henry Smith 1911, 630)
Fellow Apostle and later President of the Church, Elder David O. McKay, wrote this tribute of him:
Large in stature, dignified in appearance, magnanimous in spirit, pure and generous in thought, word and deed, charitable even to his enemy, if he ever had one, President John Henry seemed to merit in its fullest sense all that is included in the term A Great Man.
He was unselfish. His personal interests were always second to the public welfare. Altruistic in his nature, he was never happier than when he was making somebody else happy. To say a kind word or to do a noble deed was his constant desire. No child was too insignificant, no person too poor, to receive of the comforting light from his benevolent soul. … Every truly great man, like the Man of Nazareth, has possessed a nature that yearned for the betterment and salvation of his fellowmen. Such a soul was President John Henry Smith’s. He was as charitable towards the faults of his fellowmen as he was unselfish. The last speech I heard him make, delivered on the afternoon of his last day on earth, breathed forth charity and forgiveness for one who has persecuted the servants of God.
He was a lover of home. He looked upon the home as the unit of the state, the safeguard of the nation. As a husband he was devoted and true; as a father, tender and affectionate. If fault he had in family matters (and he, like all men, had his failings) it was a spirit of leniency with his children; but be it said to their credit, they have been too noble, and too appreciative of their father’s tender solicitude, to take advantage of his loving indulgence. He taught his families correct principles and they governed themselves. In his mind there was but one standard of virtue for boys and girls—both should conserve their virtue and protect their chastity, as they would guard their lives….
There was no greater advocate of liberty to be found anywhere than our beloved, patriotic, Brother John Henry. Nearly every speech he delivered breathed forth the spirit of personal liberty and national patriotism. Born in the midst of a persecution that drove his parents from their home in Nauvoo after the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph and the Patriarch Hyrum, his father’s cousin, he seemed to have absorbed into his very being right from babyhood, an antipathy and hatred for oppression and persecution. He was a true statesman and an ardent defender of the Constitution of the United States.
As a worthy apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, he ever bore testimony to the divinity of the Savior’s mission, and of the restoration of the Gospel through the Prophet Joseph Smith. He was never known to make an apology for his belief in the Church of Jesus Christ; and though his membership in national Congresses and his interest in national affairs brought him almost constantly in contact with men of all creeds and of no creeds, every one knew that John Henry Smith believed in Mormonism, so called, and in its ultimate triumph in redeeming the world. His strength and fearlessness in living up to his beliefs, and obeying the teachings of the Church, anywhere and under all conditions, won him friends in all circles. He sought first “the kingdom of God and His righteousness”, and all other things were added to him. A willing servant to the Church like his Master of old, he was ever ready to say, “Father, Thy will, not mine be done.” (McKay 1911, 640-641)
Conclusion
What kind of a man was Elder John Henry Smith? He was a man of unquestioning faith. He was contented to live where he was. He was obedient to every call he received. He was humble and teachable, even childlike. He loved people and wanted them to enjoy the blessings of the gospel that he enjoyed.
He was truly a man of the people and worked with them all the days of his life. In his day, many laws needed to be changed and he rolled up his sleeves and had a hand in changing them to what they are today. He was a tireless worker, a loyal friend, a forgiving man. He had faith not only in God, but also in his fellow man. He was constantly friendly and kind to all around him and valued the individual more than any worldly goods that could be obtained on earth.
He felt called to be a leader not only in the church, but also in politics and did his best to step up to the expectations laid upon him. He was a man anyone could be proud to emulate.
n.d. Ancestral File. Accessed June 17, 2015. https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/2:1:M7XW-6N4.
2003. Church History in the Fulness of Times, Student Manual. Salt Lake City: Church Educational System Curriculum.
Lyman, Edward Leo. 2010. Candid Insights of a Mormon Apostle: The Diaries of Abraham H. Cannon, 1889-1895. Kindle Edition. Salt Lake City: Signature Books.
McKay, David O. 1911. "Editorial Thoughts: A Great Man Has Left Us." The Juvenile Instructor, November: 640-641.
Parry, Edwin F. 1900. "Lives of Our Leaders--The Apostles. John Henry Smith." The Juvenile Instructor, June 1: 321-325.
—. 1911. "President John Henry Smith." The Juvenile Instructor, November: 627-630.
Roberts, B. H. n.d. Comprehensive History of the Church. Kindle Edition. Librainia.
Smith, John Henry. 1897. Sixty-Eighth Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: Deseret News Publishing Company. 13-16.
—. 1899. Seventieth Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 29-33.
—. 1901. Seventy-First Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 38-42.
—. 1904. Seventy-Fifth Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 25-28.
—. 1905. Seventy-Sixth Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 12-15.
—. 1908. Seventy-Ninth Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 69-71.
—. 1909. The 79th Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 116-118.
—. 1909. The Eightieth Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 21-26.
—. 1911. Eighty-Second Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Deseret News. 16-19.
—. 1901. "Saved From Drowning Through a Father's Prayer." The Juvenile Instructor, September 1: 516.
—. 1881. The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star, May 9: 294.
—. 1886. The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star, November 1: 691.
—. 1887. The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star, October 31: 690-691.
—. 1888. The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star, November 19: 738-740.
The Improvement Era. 1911. "Some of the Activities of President John Henry Smith." November: 59.
1885. "Volume 26." In The Complete Journal of Discourses: Latter-Day Saint Reference Edition.
[a] Brigham Young and Brigham Young, Jr.; John Taylor and John W. Taylor; George Q. Cannon and Abraham H. Cannon; Wilford Woodruff and Abraham O. Woodruff; Joseph F. Smith and Hyrum M. Smith; Joseph F. Smith and Joseph Fielding Smith