Martha H. Tingey
Born: 15 October 1857
Called as Second Counselor in the Young Women's General Presidency: 19 June 1880
Called as Young Women's General President: April 1905
Released: April 1929
Died: 11 March 1938
Called as Second Counselor in the Young Women's General Presidency: 19 June 1880
Called as Young Women's General President: April 1905
Released: April 1929
Died: 11 March 1938
Biographical Articles
Biographical Encyclopedia, Volume 4
Young Woman's Journal, January 1891, Martha Jane Horne Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, February 1899, Martha Horne Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, June 1905, Martha Horne Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, March 1915, Martha Horne Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, October 1917, A Tribute to Martha H. Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, October 1917, President Martha H. Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, July 1920, Forty Years of Service
Young Woman's Journal, May 1925, Our President
Young Woman's Journal, June 1925, The Y. L. M. I. A. Under President Martha H. Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, October 1927, President Martha H. Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, October 1927, Birthday Tributes by Members of the General Board
Young Woman's Journal, May 1929, A Tribute
Young Woman's Journal, May 1929, President Martha H. Tingey
Relief Society Magazine, April 1938, Martha Horne Tingey
Improvement Era, May 1938, Martha Horne Tingey
Instructor, July 1950, Representative Women of the Church - Martha Horne Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, January 1891, Martha Jane Horne Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, February 1899, Martha Horne Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, June 1905, Martha Horne Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, March 1915, Martha Horne Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, October 1917, A Tribute to Martha H. Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, October 1917, President Martha H. Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, July 1920, Forty Years of Service
Young Woman's Journal, May 1925, Our President
Young Woman's Journal, June 1925, The Y. L. M. I. A. Under President Martha H. Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, October 1927, President Martha H. Tingey
Young Woman's Journal, October 1927, Birthday Tributes by Members of the General Board
Young Woman's Journal, May 1929, A Tribute
Young Woman's Journal, May 1929, President Martha H. Tingey
Relief Society Magazine, April 1938, Martha Horne Tingey
Improvement Era, May 1938, Martha Horne Tingey
Instructor, July 1950, Representative Women of the Church - Martha Horne Tingey
Jenson, Andrew. "Tingey, Martha Jane Horne." Biographical Encyclopedia. Volume 4. pg. 74-75, 269.
TINGEY, Martha Jane Home, general president of the Young Ladies Mutual Improvement Association of the Church from 1905 to 1929, was born Oct. 15, 1857, in Salt Lake City, Utah, the daughter of Joseph Home and Mary Isabella Hales. She received her education in private schools and in the Deseret University, now the University of Utah. Sister Martha was baptized by her father when eight years old and has since her earliest youth been a diligent Church worker, a teacher in the Sunday school and an officer in the Primary Association and Y. L. M, I. A. For several years she acted as counselor in the 14th Ward Y. L. M. I. A., and in 1880 was chosen as second counselor to Sister Elmina S. Taylor, general president of the Y. L. M. I. A. in the whole Church. In April, 1905, Sister Tingey succeeded Sister Taylor as general president of the Y. L. M. I. A., which position she held until April, 1929, when, at her own request, she was honorably released on account of ill health. Sister Tingey was a successful presiding officer, and during the many years she stood at the head of all the young ladies of the Church, she made a remarkable record for diligence and faithful discharge of duty. Her counselors were Ruth M. Fox and May Taylor Nystrom. Sister Nystrom was released due to her removal from the city, and Sister Lucy Grant Cannon succeeded her as second counselor. After the Y. L. M. I. A. of the Church became affiliated with the National Council of Women, Pres. Tingey made several trips to Washington, D. C, Seattle (Washington), Chicago (Illinois), New York, California and other states, representing the Y. L. M. I. A. at the National Council of Women on several occasions. On Sept. 30, 1884, she was married to Joseph S. Tingey and became the mother of seven children, five of whom are still living. Sister Tingey is gifted in music and has natural elocutionary powers, and being possessed of a rare memory, while still quite young, she was in constant demand for public and private entertainments. Although giving much of her time and attention to her Church duties. Sister Tingey has always been a devoted wife and mother. (See also "Young Woman's Journal," Vol. 2, pp. 307-311.)
TINGEY, Martha Jane Home, president of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association from 1905 to 1929, was born Oct. 15, 1857, in Salt Lake City, Utah, the daughter of Joseph Home and Mary Isabella Hales. She was educated in the public schools and the Deseret University. As a girl she was gifted in music and elocution. When the General Board was organized in 1880 she was chosen as a counselor to Pres. Elmina S. Taylor. On Sept. 30, 1884, she was married to Joseph S. Tingey. She was always active in the auxiliaries of the ward in which she lived. Upon the death of Sister Taylor, Sister Tingey was made general president of the Y. L. M. I. A., and was sustained in that position in April, 1905. She was one of the principal speakers at the Congress of Women at the Chicago World's Fair in 1893, and she also attended several conventions of the National Council of Women. Because of ill health she resigned from the General Board in the spring of 1929.
TINGEY, Martha Jane Home, general president of the Young Ladies Mutual Improvement Association of the Church from 1905 to 1929, was born Oct. 15, 1857, in Salt Lake City, Utah, the daughter of Joseph Home and Mary Isabella Hales. She received her education in private schools and in the Deseret University, now the University of Utah. Sister Martha was baptized by her father when eight years old and has since her earliest youth been a diligent Church worker, a teacher in the Sunday school and an officer in the Primary Association and Y. L. M, I. A. For several years she acted as counselor in the 14th Ward Y. L. M. I. A., and in 1880 was chosen as second counselor to Sister Elmina S. Taylor, general president of the Y. L. M. I. A. in the whole Church. In April, 1905, Sister Tingey succeeded Sister Taylor as general president of the Y. L. M. I. A., which position she held until April, 1929, when, at her own request, she was honorably released on account of ill health. Sister Tingey was a successful presiding officer, and during the many years she stood at the head of all the young ladies of the Church, she made a remarkable record for diligence and faithful discharge of duty. Her counselors were Ruth M. Fox and May Taylor Nystrom. Sister Nystrom was released due to her removal from the city, and Sister Lucy Grant Cannon succeeded her as second counselor. After the Y. L. M. I. A. of the Church became affiliated with the National Council of Women, Pres. Tingey made several trips to Washington, D. C, Seattle (Washington), Chicago (Illinois), New York, California and other states, representing the Y. L. M. I. A. at the National Council of Women on several occasions. On Sept. 30, 1884, she was married to Joseph S. Tingey and became the mother of seven children, five of whom are still living. Sister Tingey is gifted in music and has natural elocutionary powers, and being possessed of a rare memory, while still quite young, she was in constant demand for public and private entertainments. Although giving much of her time and attention to her Church duties. Sister Tingey has always been a devoted wife and mother. (See also "Young Woman's Journal," Vol. 2, pp. 307-311.)
TINGEY, Martha Jane Home, president of the Young Women's Mutual Improvement Association from 1905 to 1929, was born Oct. 15, 1857, in Salt Lake City, Utah, the daughter of Joseph Home and Mary Isabella Hales. She was educated in the public schools and the Deseret University. As a girl she was gifted in music and elocution. When the General Board was organized in 1880 she was chosen as a counselor to Pres. Elmina S. Taylor. On Sept. 30, 1884, she was married to Joseph S. Tingey. She was always active in the auxiliaries of the ward in which she lived. Upon the death of Sister Taylor, Sister Tingey was made general president of the Y. L. M. I. A., and was sustained in that position in April, 1905. She was one of the principal speakers at the Congress of Women at the Chicago World's Fair in 1893, and she also attended several conventions of the National Council of Women. Because of ill health she resigned from the General Board in the spring of 1929.
"Martha Jane Horne Tingey." Young Woman's Journal. January 1891. pg. 145-152.
MARTHA JANE HORNE TINGEY.
IT IS customary to begin biographical sketches with the time of birth of the individual represented and such other data as pertains to the event; but in this instance the writer will digress a little from the beaten track generally pursued and tell of the parentage and condition thereof previous to the arrival upon the scene of action of this young woman, some of the events of whose life are to be given in a pen picture, accompanying the likeness, for the Young Woman’s Journal.
The father and mother of Mrs. Tingey were Joseph Horne and Mary Isabella (Hales) Horne, both of them of pure English extraction, and well descended ; in fact the ancestry of the Hales were “men and women of renown,” in the England of former days. Moreover, Mrs. Horne has inherited from her antecedents, those noble and lofty traits of character, that are found in the grand old types of the early periods of English history.
Mr. and Mrs. Horne became acquainted in Canada, whither they had gone from the mother country while quite young, and were there united in marriage. About a month afterwards they had the privilege of hearing Orson Pratt preach the everlasting gospel, subsequently Parley P. Pratt and then Orson Hyde, who baptized Mrs. Home in July, 1836. In course of time they gathered with the Saints in Missouri, and passed through the persecutions and severe trials of that period of the history of the Church. From that time on they continued with the body of the Saints in their wanderings and pilgrimages, coming to Utah in the first company that followed the pioneers in 1847.
There is no doubt in the mind of the writer, but that the character and temperament of children are largely due to paternal and maternal influences. This fact is pretty well known and acknowledged in the present day by scientists and others. As I am not dealing with the subject of heredity, I will only remark that the babe Martha was born at a time when the mother was earnestly beseeching the Lord in prayer and supplication for His diving assistance, under perhaps the greatest trial she had ever experienced. She had accepted with her husband the revelation upon plural marriage, not only in theory but in practice.
About the same time she was chosen as First Counselor to the President of the Relief Society, Mrs. Phebe. W. Woodruff, in the 14th Ward where she resided. This was another channel of development in good works and deeds and brought into exercise those sweet and heavenly attributes of womanly character that wrought upon the condition of the unborn child, and have doubtless been a heritage to her of more worth than worldly wealth.
Martha Jane Horne was born in Salt Lake City, October 15th, 1857, at the Horne residence in the 14th Ward. She was the eighth daughter and fourteenth child of her parents. The home of the Home family has always been celebrated for its hospitality; and many pleasant parties, family reunions, and social gatherings have been enjoyed in this old-time mansion. While little Mattie, as she is always called by the family and familiar friends, was yet a babe, her father was called on a mission to Southern Utah, leaving the mother in charge of a large family of small children. In the spring of 1858, Mrs. Horne (as well as many others) was obliged to leave her home and take up the line of march southward; this was the time that General Johnston’s army was expected in Utah and the women and children vacated the city. Little Mattie, six months old, was taken in her mother’s arms, while she drove her own team, a span of horses, two hundred and fifty miles, and cared for three other children (one pair of twins included) under four years of age, besides the older ones who occupied another wagon. In September of the same year the mother and family returned to their home in this city, and late in the fall the father and husband returned from his mission to the bosom of his family.
Those early days in the valley, when the Territory was new were not the times of plenty and of luxury, such as our young people now enjoy; prudence and economy were necessary in every household, and Mrs. Tingey was reared in habits of industry and thrift for which she says she “has always been truly thankful.” She early evinced an ardent love for learning, and was instructed by her sisters at home until she had mastered the alphabet and primer and was able to read in the first reader, when she was sent for the first time to school to Bartlett Tripp in their own ward. From that time she became an almost constant reader, her mother often taking the book from her and sending her out to play to get a little exercise; then she would enter into the games, etc., just as hard as anybody. Her only recollection almost of her first term at school is that of being placed on the stand on examination days to recite poems. She was a regular attendant at Sabbath School, and it was not unusual for her to recite from 30 to 40 verses from the Bible at once when quite young, thus she became conversant with Bible history and also with the Book of Doctrine and Covenants in the same way. She committed to memory the ten commandments and the word of wisdom and recited them with a class when eight years of age; Mrs. Tingey adds “I read all the histories and everything else in the Sunday School library as well as all other books that came in my way. I used to read aloud to mother, and to visitors many times, which has been a great benefit to me, and is a practice I would recommend to mothers to encourage in their children”.
When only eight years of age Mattie Horne was chosen by her teacher to read the manuscript paper on examination day when a part of two or three other schools were present by invitation. This reading was so creditably accomplished by what seemed such a tiny girl that it won laurels for the little maiden, and from the many visitors present she received fervent congratulations.
Mrs. Tingey has always made a confident of her mother and feels that it has been a great blessing to her and would be to girls in general, to be able to talk freely on all subjects with their mothers. A little anecdote of her childhood illustrates her training, and it may not be amiss to give it as she related it to me. Her mother had taught her not to borrow things at school; one day she came home from school with a repentant look and manner, and confessed to her mother that she had been disobedient, and had borrowed a ring from one of the girls, and had lost it; but she had felt so conscience stricken about the matter, that she went by herself at the back of the school house to pray, and asked the Lord in her prayer to show her where the ring was, “and the Lord showed me where it was and I went and got it and gave it to the little girl,” said the child in the most impressive manner. There are two important lessons to be learned from this anecdote; one is the remorse that follows disobedience in children whose consciences are properly cultivated; and the other the element of faith in the child when correctly instructed in its exercise.
Judging from my knowledge of Mattie’s character I should think her young life was remarkably happy ; she was fond of music, a very sweet singer, and had many young companions with whom she was a great favorite. She was rather an old-fashioned child, liked to listen to the conversation of people in years, and when her mother had visitors, she would often find Mattie curled up in a corner deeply interested in the conversation. Added to her love of music Mattie was also quite proficient in dancing a graceful petite figure with dainty feet, and Br. Martin Lenzi, her teacher, was fond of showing her off as his model pupil, whenever there was an opportunity at a concert or party in the ward, much to the child’s annoyance, as she was modest to sensitiveness, when appearing thus before the public.
When about eight or nine years old Mattie had quite a remarkable dream, which she has always remembered and it was recently recalled more vividly to her mind while working in connection with her father, mother, brother and other relatives in the Manti Temple. I will give it in her own words as related to me:
“I dreamed one of my little school companions, just my own age died, and asked me to go to heaven with her; I told her I would, and we took hold of each other’s hands and started off; when we arrived at the large gates—they were open, and a personage stood there in beautiful white robes ; my impression was that it was the Savior, and that He had opened the gates for us. He let my little friend in, but when I tried to go in, He told me I couldn’t enter, and handed me a small silver lock and key, and told me I could go in when I was ready; I put out my hand to take hold of the lock, and He said no ! no! no! quite distinctly, but firmly and kindly. I seemed to think then I must take hold of the key, which I did, and He nodded His head in assent. As I turned away to come down to earth again, and after going a little distance, I was surrounded with wolves, that in spite of everything seemed determined to destroy me, and for a long way I had to pass through these herds of wolves, that surrounded me on all sides, but I made my way along notwithstanding, and when nearly home my brother Richard met me and took me safe home.”
This dream must have made a very forcible impression upon the child, for her to have remembered it so many years, and no doubt has a very significant meaning attached to it, though it may not be apparent just yet, in all its bearings.
One more little incident of Mattie’s childhood and then leaving that portion of her life we will speak of her girlhood days and marriage, and her labors in the Mutual Improvement Associations and other important matters.
When the railroad reached Ogden in 1867 it was a novelty in Utah and many of the older people had never seen the cars, having kept ahead of them in the western country. Brother and Sister Horne and family, concluded to go to Ogden, and pay their respects to the locomotive, consequently they rigged up a camping outfit, and took the whole family, a practice very common in those days, when going out for rest and recreation. Reaching Ogden it was thought to complete the pleasure of the journey one must have a ride on the train, so they decided to go to the Hot Springs a few miles distant for a trip; but some one must stay to watch the horses and wagon, and Brother Horne decided to stay, as he had seen cars before in the East. Mattie was so timid that she was bent on staying with her father, and could not be prevailed upon to go, so one of her big brothers bundled her up, took her in his arms and carried her aboard; her fears were all dispelled with the delight she experienced when once fairly started on the track. At the Hot Springs they alighted to await there the down coming train, and to amuse the children, the section men took them up and down the track on the hand cars; the time flew quickly and Mrs. Tingey says this was one of the most entertaining incidents of her child life. This little girl quite distinguished herself in school and Sunday School receiving as rewards of merit many books and cards as prizes for excelling in reading, spelling, arithmetic, etc. In the year 1869 or 70 three graded prizes were offered by the superintendent of the Fourteenth Ward Sunday School to which Mattie belonged, for the best biographical sketch of the Prophet Joseph Smith. Miss Mattie took the second prize, the first one being awarded to Master Abraham H. Cannon then quite a little lad.
Mattie was taught fine sewing and embroidery as well as plainer needle work in the home by her mother, who was a fine needle-woman; and she also instructed her in all the several branches and details of household occupations, so that when Miss Mattie entered upon other employment she was not ignorant of the duties and labor of housekeeping. When fourteen years of age she joined both the Sunday school and ward choirs and was always on hand regularly and in her place to assist when there were funerals in the ward whether of the rich or poor, as well as to sing at ward entertainments, concerts for charities or public benefits; and from the time she was old enough to be of service, whenever there was anything going on in the ward in the nature of a public entertainment, Miss Mattie Horne was sure to be chosen on one of the committees.
In the summer of 1873 half a dozen young girls by the suggestion of Pres. Brigham Young and Apostle George Q. Cannon volunteered to learn typesetting; it was a new departure in this city and much was said to discourage, as well as in its favor. I notice in the Woman’s Exponent of August 15, 1873, the names of the young ladies who first commenced to learn typesetting and Miss Martha J. Horne’s name heads the list. She continued this occupation for ten years, until nearly the time of her marriage; almost constantly, and became in course of time such an expert in the business that she earned as much, and her compensation was equal to that of the men, who worked in the same establishment, and even during the time she was thus employed she did much of her own sewing, dressmaking, etc.
Miss Mattie Horne may with all propriety be spoken of as a spiritual-minded girl, her tendencies were very strong in that direction, and as a natural consequence, she united herself with what was then known as the Young Ladies’ Retrenchment Association when it was first organized in the ward where she lived and was always an active member. When the name of the Association was changed to the Young Ladies Mutual Improvement Association she still continued and was frequently the editor of the manuscript paper and in every place and calling acted efficiently. She was called upon to read the manuscript paper at a conjoint meeting of the V. M. & Y. L. before a very large and critical audience and acquitted herself with great credit.
At a very large select party in the Fourteenth Ward Assembly Rooms given in honor of Sister Eliza R. Snow shortly after her return from the Holy Land, Miss Mattie Horne read in a very pleasing and graceful manner the poem written by Mrs. Woodmansee for the occasion and dedicated to Sister Eliza. On many other occasions she has given readings in public, and in several instances she has surprised her friends greatly by the tender sweetness of her tones and the music of her intonation.
Miss Mattie Horne was at an early date after its organization admitted a member of the Wasatch Literary Association, and in that as in all other societies with which she was connected she took a prominent part. She helped very much in contributing to the musical part of the evening entertainments and was usually on for a song or in a duet or quartette, always taking her part cheerfully.
In 1875 she was appointed a teacher in the Sabbath school and was given a class of little girls, which class she continued to teach until she was married and left the school, at which time the little girls she commenced with were all marriageable young ladies. This duty she felt a pleasure and enjoyed the time devoted to the work very much indeed. She also held the position of Secretary in Sunday school for about two years previous to her marriage.
When the Primary Association, was first organized in the ward Miss Mattie Horne was selected by Mrs. Clara C. Cannon, who was chosen President, to act as one of her counselors, which she did until her health became so poor that she was not able to attend to the duties of the office. A great deal of her leisure time, or what would be taken by many young girls for pleasurable recreation, Miss Mattie devoted to training the children of both the Primary and Sunday school in songs, recitations and dialogues for concerts, etc. On the 19th of January, 1877, Miss Mattie joined the Tabernacle choir and has been a member of it ever since, though for the past five years she has not been able to attend as regularly as she was previously in the habit of doing. A part of that time she has also filled the position of Assistant Secretary for the choir.
Al a conference held in the Salt Lake Assembly Hall, June 19th, 1880, when Mrs. Elmina S. Taylor was elected to fill the office of General President of the Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Associations, she chose Miss Martha J. Horne as her second counselor, and this choice was unanimously sustained by the conference; she still holds this position which she has filled with great credit and efficiency and a quiet dignity ever since; she has traveled in the interest of the Associations in many of the Stakes of Zion and attended the conferences; and she has been diligent at home in her own Stake in attending meetings and in speaking and exhortation at all times and in all places when duty called her to do so, even though the responsibility sometimes seemed very great for one so young. Mrs. Tingey possesses sublime courage, and she depends upon the guidance and influence of the Holy Spirit, and she is really an inspirational and gifted public speaker. Her voice is clear and her articulation distinct and the practice she has had in reading and singing in public has been a fruitful source of cultivation, and she is therefore enabled to speak with dignity and confidence.
Mrs. Mattie Tingey is a firm believer and supporter of equal suffrage and equal rights, and while the women of Utah held the franchise, she voted regularly at all the elections from the time she was twenty-one years old until the privilege was taken away by the passage of the Edmunds Tucker law. The young lady is also a staunch supporter of the law of tithing and from the time she began to set type, working for wages, her tithing was paid regularly, the same as that of any older person. This is an example for the young ladies of Zion that should be strictly adhered to, and a blessing would certainly follow.
In speaking of herself Mrs. Tingey says, “I am naturally of a nervous, excitable temperament and the hardest battle I have had to fight has been with my own temper to learn self-control, for I have always considered that as much a religious duty as attending meetings.”
My own experience in my intimate association with Mrs. Tingey was quite different to what she herself expresses, therefore I conclude that she must have been entire master of the strong feelings of which she speaks so plainly. I hope other young women will follow her example and learn the invaluable lessons of self-control that are so essential in every-day practical life, and especially so for Latter-day Saints.
Miss Mattie Horne’s school life was principally passed in the schools taught in the wards, except a couple of years at the Deseret University. She is a clever writer and has furnished some articles, as well as verses, for the Woman's Exponent, which were very well written and pleasing, showing that she has considerable ability in this direction.
Of Miss Mattie’s beaux and courtship, I know very little, except that she had many admirers, as it is a subject she never alluded to of her own accord and naturally I should imagine she had several offers of marriage, but she was very particular to whom she would pledge her hand and heart; in fact my own opinion is that she looked upon the responsibilities of wife and motherhood as so great, that only a true sense of the position of women in this Church would have influenced her to let her heart go out to any one. However she plighted her troth to a young man of good character and standing in the Church, one who had honorably filled a mission of two years in a foreign land. On the 30th of September, 1884, Joseph S. Tingey and Martha J. Home were united in marriage, her husband is the son of Bishop J. Tingey, of the 17th ward of this city, and has been for many years both before and ever since his marriage connected with the Deseret News Office; he is a worthy and estimable young man, and I believe fully appreciates the talents and ability of his wife, and I think they are happily mated for time and for all eternity according to the covenant.
A reception was held after the wedding at the residence of the bride’s parents where heart-felt congratulations were extended to the bride and bridegroom, who with bright prospects before them had just entered into matrimonial relations. I need not tell you of the beautiful gifts bestowed, or the sumptuous repast prepared for the assembled guests who had been invited to participate in the enjoyments of the occasion. The bridegroom was a fine looking young man and the bride charming in her pure white apparel, her dress and ornaments were simple and neat, no ostentation or superfluous display, flowers in artistic style were the only adornments I remember; but I recollect distinctly that she looked as pure as an angel.
On the 28th of October, 1885, a son was born to Brother and Sister Tingey, and was called for his father Joseph S., Jr. The mother afterwards suffered very greatly, though she was nursed with the tenderest care and solicitude and frequently administered to by the Elders and good sisters, yet she was a long time in recovering, and her severe illness left her weak and lame. Her implicit faith that she would yet be entirely healed by the power of God continued as firm as ever, although it seemed as if the destroyer was determined to hinder her active usefulness both at home and among the young people of Zion. After a time, however, her health improved and she was able to travel occasionally into other Stakes of Zion and wherever she went she bore a strong testimony to the power of healing manifested in her behalf through the ordinances of the holy Priesthood.
In October, 1888, in a conjoint conference of the Y. M. and Y. L. Associations in the large Tabernacle in this city, Mrs. Tingey made an eloquent speech that attracted the attention of the large congregation assembled there; in fact, she seemed fairly to outdo herself, and her earnest words thrilled the hearts of the audience and produced a telling if not a lasting effect.
Such young women as Mrs. Tingey are a great blessing in Zion, her quiet demeanor and noble example are an influence in themselves, potent for good wherever she is seen and known. She is in every sense of the word a lover of home, yet when duty calls her, she is more than willing to sacrifice ease and comfort to help in the great work of redemption by imparting to others those simple truths that have proved a lamp to her feet and a light to her path. Mrs. Tingey as one of the Central Board of the Y. L. M. I. A. fills a most important position, and her work will increase as Zion enlarges her borders. Many blessings have been pronounced upon her head by prophets, patriarchs and mothers in Israel. The words of Solomon, “She openeth her mouth with wisdom, and in her tongue is the law of kindness,” might well be applied to this young woman.
That her life may be prolonged to fill the mission to which she has been appointed, is the wish and prayer of the many thousands of those who have the best interests of the young women of Zion at heart. E. B. W.
MARTHA JANE HORNE TINGEY.
IT IS customary to begin biographical sketches with the time of birth of the individual represented and such other data as pertains to the event; but in this instance the writer will digress a little from the beaten track generally pursued and tell of the parentage and condition thereof previous to the arrival upon the scene of action of this young woman, some of the events of whose life are to be given in a pen picture, accompanying the likeness, for the Young Woman’s Journal.
The father and mother of Mrs. Tingey were Joseph Horne and Mary Isabella (Hales) Horne, both of them of pure English extraction, and well descended ; in fact the ancestry of the Hales were “men and women of renown,” in the England of former days. Moreover, Mrs. Horne has inherited from her antecedents, those noble and lofty traits of character, that are found in the grand old types of the early periods of English history.
Mr. and Mrs. Horne became acquainted in Canada, whither they had gone from the mother country while quite young, and were there united in marriage. About a month afterwards they had the privilege of hearing Orson Pratt preach the everlasting gospel, subsequently Parley P. Pratt and then Orson Hyde, who baptized Mrs. Home in July, 1836. In course of time they gathered with the Saints in Missouri, and passed through the persecutions and severe trials of that period of the history of the Church. From that time on they continued with the body of the Saints in their wanderings and pilgrimages, coming to Utah in the first company that followed the pioneers in 1847.
There is no doubt in the mind of the writer, but that the character and temperament of children are largely due to paternal and maternal influences. This fact is pretty well known and acknowledged in the present day by scientists and others. As I am not dealing with the subject of heredity, I will only remark that the babe Martha was born at a time when the mother was earnestly beseeching the Lord in prayer and supplication for His diving assistance, under perhaps the greatest trial she had ever experienced. She had accepted with her husband the revelation upon plural marriage, not only in theory but in practice.
About the same time she was chosen as First Counselor to the President of the Relief Society, Mrs. Phebe. W. Woodruff, in the 14th Ward where she resided. This was another channel of development in good works and deeds and brought into exercise those sweet and heavenly attributes of womanly character that wrought upon the condition of the unborn child, and have doubtless been a heritage to her of more worth than worldly wealth.
Martha Jane Horne was born in Salt Lake City, October 15th, 1857, at the Horne residence in the 14th Ward. She was the eighth daughter and fourteenth child of her parents. The home of the Home family has always been celebrated for its hospitality; and many pleasant parties, family reunions, and social gatherings have been enjoyed in this old-time mansion. While little Mattie, as she is always called by the family and familiar friends, was yet a babe, her father was called on a mission to Southern Utah, leaving the mother in charge of a large family of small children. In the spring of 1858, Mrs. Horne (as well as many others) was obliged to leave her home and take up the line of march southward; this was the time that General Johnston’s army was expected in Utah and the women and children vacated the city. Little Mattie, six months old, was taken in her mother’s arms, while she drove her own team, a span of horses, two hundred and fifty miles, and cared for three other children (one pair of twins included) under four years of age, besides the older ones who occupied another wagon. In September of the same year the mother and family returned to their home in this city, and late in the fall the father and husband returned from his mission to the bosom of his family.
Those early days in the valley, when the Territory was new were not the times of plenty and of luxury, such as our young people now enjoy; prudence and economy were necessary in every household, and Mrs. Tingey was reared in habits of industry and thrift for which she says she “has always been truly thankful.” She early evinced an ardent love for learning, and was instructed by her sisters at home until she had mastered the alphabet and primer and was able to read in the first reader, when she was sent for the first time to school to Bartlett Tripp in their own ward. From that time she became an almost constant reader, her mother often taking the book from her and sending her out to play to get a little exercise; then she would enter into the games, etc., just as hard as anybody. Her only recollection almost of her first term at school is that of being placed on the stand on examination days to recite poems. She was a regular attendant at Sabbath School, and it was not unusual for her to recite from 30 to 40 verses from the Bible at once when quite young, thus she became conversant with Bible history and also with the Book of Doctrine and Covenants in the same way. She committed to memory the ten commandments and the word of wisdom and recited them with a class when eight years of age; Mrs. Tingey adds “I read all the histories and everything else in the Sunday School library as well as all other books that came in my way. I used to read aloud to mother, and to visitors many times, which has been a great benefit to me, and is a practice I would recommend to mothers to encourage in their children”.
When only eight years of age Mattie Horne was chosen by her teacher to read the manuscript paper on examination day when a part of two or three other schools were present by invitation. This reading was so creditably accomplished by what seemed such a tiny girl that it won laurels for the little maiden, and from the many visitors present she received fervent congratulations.
Mrs. Tingey has always made a confident of her mother and feels that it has been a great blessing to her and would be to girls in general, to be able to talk freely on all subjects with their mothers. A little anecdote of her childhood illustrates her training, and it may not be amiss to give it as she related it to me. Her mother had taught her not to borrow things at school; one day she came home from school with a repentant look and manner, and confessed to her mother that she had been disobedient, and had borrowed a ring from one of the girls, and had lost it; but she had felt so conscience stricken about the matter, that she went by herself at the back of the school house to pray, and asked the Lord in her prayer to show her where the ring was, “and the Lord showed me where it was and I went and got it and gave it to the little girl,” said the child in the most impressive manner. There are two important lessons to be learned from this anecdote; one is the remorse that follows disobedience in children whose consciences are properly cultivated; and the other the element of faith in the child when correctly instructed in its exercise.
Judging from my knowledge of Mattie’s character I should think her young life was remarkably happy ; she was fond of music, a very sweet singer, and had many young companions with whom she was a great favorite. She was rather an old-fashioned child, liked to listen to the conversation of people in years, and when her mother had visitors, she would often find Mattie curled up in a corner deeply interested in the conversation. Added to her love of music Mattie was also quite proficient in dancing a graceful petite figure with dainty feet, and Br. Martin Lenzi, her teacher, was fond of showing her off as his model pupil, whenever there was an opportunity at a concert or party in the ward, much to the child’s annoyance, as she was modest to sensitiveness, when appearing thus before the public.
When about eight or nine years old Mattie had quite a remarkable dream, which she has always remembered and it was recently recalled more vividly to her mind while working in connection with her father, mother, brother and other relatives in the Manti Temple. I will give it in her own words as related to me:
“I dreamed one of my little school companions, just my own age died, and asked me to go to heaven with her; I told her I would, and we took hold of each other’s hands and started off; when we arrived at the large gates—they were open, and a personage stood there in beautiful white robes ; my impression was that it was the Savior, and that He had opened the gates for us. He let my little friend in, but when I tried to go in, He told me I couldn’t enter, and handed me a small silver lock and key, and told me I could go in when I was ready; I put out my hand to take hold of the lock, and He said no ! no! no! quite distinctly, but firmly and kindly. I seemed to think then I must take hold of the key, which I did, and He nodded His head in assent. As I turned away to come down to earth again, and after going a little distance, I was surrounded with wolves, that in spite of everything seemed determined to destroy me, and for a long way I had to pass through these herds of wolves, that surrounded me on all sides, but I made my way along notwithstanding, and when nearly home my brother Richard met me and took me safe home.”
This dream must have made a very forcible impression upon the child, for her to have remembered it so many years, and no doubt has a very significant meaning attached to it, though it may not be apparent just yet, in all its bearings.
One more little incident of Mattie’s childhood and then leaving that portion of her life we will speak of her girlhood days and marriage, and her labors in the Mutual Improvement Associations and other important matters.
When the railroad reached Ogden in 1867 it was a novelty in Utah and many of the older people had never seen the cars, having kept ahead of them in the western country. Brother and Sister Horne and family, concluded to go to Ogden, and pay their respects to the locomotive, consequently they rigged up a camping outfit, and took the whole family, a practice very common in those days, when going out for rest and recreation. Reaching Ogden it was thought to complete the pleasure of the journey one must have a ride on the train, so they decided to go to the Hot Springs a few miles distant for a trip; but some one must stay to watch the horses and wagon, and Brother Horne decided to stay, as he had seen cars before in the East. Mattie was so timid that she was bent on staying with her father, and could not be prevailed upon to go, so one of her big brothers bundled her up, took her in his arms and carried her aboard; her fears were all dispelled with the delight she experienced when once fairly started on the track. At the Hot Springs they alighted to await there the down coming train, and to amuse the children, the section men took them up and down the track on the hand cars; the time flew quickly and Mrs. Tingey says this was one of the most entertaining incidents of her child life. This little girl quite distinguished herself in school and Sunday School receiving as rewards of merit many books and cards as prizes for excelling in reading, spelling, arithmetic, etc. In the year 1869 or 70 three graded prizes were offered by the superintendent of the Fourteenth Ward Sunday School to which Mattie belonged, for the best biographical sketch of the Prophet Joseph Smith. Miss Mattie took the second prize, the first one being awarded to Master Abraham H. Cannon then quite a little lad.
Mattie was taught fine sewing and embroidery as well as plainer needle work in the home by her mother, who was a fine needle-woman; and she also instructed her in all the several branches and details of household occupations, so that when Miss Mattie entered upon other employment she was not ignorant of the duties and labor of housekeeping. When fourteen years of age she joined both the Sunday school and ward choirs and was always on hand regularly and in her place to assist when there were funerals in the ward whether of the rich or poor, as well as to sing at ward entertainments, concerts for charities or public benefits; and from the time she was old enough to be of service, whenever there was anything going on in the ward in the nature of a public entertainment, Miss Mattie Horne was sure to be chosen on one of the committees.
In the summer of 1873 half a dozen young girls by the suggestion of Pres. Brigham Young and Apostle George Q. Cannon volunteered to learn typesetting; it was a new departure in this city and much was said to discourage, as well as in its favor. I notice in the Woman’s Exponent of August 15, 1873, the names of the young ladies who first commenced to learn typesetting and Miss Martha J. Horne’s name heads the list. She continued this occupation for ten years, until nearly the time of her marriage; almost constantly, and became in course of time such an expert in the business that she earned as much, and her compensation was equal to that of the men, who worked in the same establishment, and even during the time she was thus employed she did much of her own sewing, dressmaking, etc.
Miss Mattie Horne may with all propriety be spoken of as a spiritual-minded girl, her tendencies were very strong in that direction, and as a natural consequence, she united herself with what was then known as the Young Ladies’ Retrenchment Association when it was first organized in the ward where she lived and was always an active member. When the name of the Association was changed to the Young Ladies Mutual Improvement Association she still continued and was frequently the editor of the manuscript paper and in every place and calling acted efficiently. She was called upon to read the manuscript paper at a conjoint meeting of the V. M. & Y. L. before a very large and critical audience and acquitted herself with great credit.
At a very large select party in the Fourteenth Ward Assembly Rooms given in honor of Sister Eliza R. Snow shortly after her return from the Holy Land, Miss Mattie Horne read in a very pleasing and graceful manner the poem written by Mrs. Woodmansee for the occasion and dedicated to Sister Eliza. On many other occasions she has given readings in public, and in several instances she has surprised her friends greatly by the tender sweetness of her tones and the music of her intonation.
Miss Mattie Horne was at an early date after its organization admitted a member of the Wasatch Literary Association, and in that as in all other societies with which she was connected she took a prominent part. She helped very much in contributing to the musical part of the evening entertainments and was usually on for a song or in a duet or quartette, always taking her part cheerfully.
In 1875 she was appointed a teacher in the Sabbath school and was given a class of little girls, which class she continued to teach until she was married and left the school, at which time the little girls she commenced with were all marriageable young ladies. This duty she felt a pleasure and enjoyed the time devoted to the work very much indeed. She also held the position of Secretary in Sunday school for about two years previous to her marriage.
When the Primary Association, was first organized in the ward Miss Mattie Horne was selected by Mrs. Clara C. Cannon, who was chosen President, to act as one of her counselors, which she did until her health became so poor that she was not able to attend to the duties of the office. A great deal of her leisure time, or what would be taken by many young girls for pleasurable recreation, Miss Mattie devoted to training the children of both the Primary and Sunday school in songs, recitations and dialogues for concerts, etc. On the 19th of January, 1877, Miss Mattie joined the Tabernacle choir and has been a member of it ever since, though for the past five years she has not been able to attend as regularly as she was previously in the habit of doing. A part of that time she has also filled the position of Assistant Secretary for the choir.
Al a conference held in the Salt Lake Assembly Hall, June 19th, 1880, when Mrs. Elmina S. Taylor was elected to fill the office of General President of the Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Associations, she chose Miss Martha J. Horne as her second counselor, and this choice was unanimously sustained by the conference; she still holds this position which she has filled with great credit and efficiency and a quiet dignity ever since; she has traveled in the interest of the Associations in many of the Stakes of Zion and attended the conferences; and she has been diligent at home in her own Stake in attending meetings and in speaking and exhortation at all times and in all places when duty called her to do so, even though the responsibility sometimes seemed very great for one so young. Mrs. Tingey possesses sublime courage, and she depends upon the guidance and influence of the Holy Spirit, and she is really an inspirational and gifted public speaker. Her voice is clear and her articulation distinct and the practice she has had in reading and singing in public has been a fruitful source of cultivation, and she is therefore enabled to speak with dignity and confidence.
Mrs. Mattie Tingey is a firm believer and supporter of equal suffrage and equal rights, and while the women of Utah held the franchise, she voted regularly at all the elections from the time she was twenty-one years old until the privilege was taken away by the passage of the Edmunds Tucker law. The young lady is also a staunch supporter of the law of tithing and from the time she began to set type, working for wages, her tithing was paid regularly, the same as that of any older person. This is an example for the young ladies of Zion that should be strictly adhered to, and a blessing would certainly follow.
In speaking of herself Mrs. Tingey says, “I am naturally of a nervous, excitable temperament and the hardest battle I have had to fight has been with my own temper to learn self-control, for I have always considered that as much a religious duty as attending meetings.”
My own experience in my intimate association with Mrs. Tingey was quite different to what she herself expresses, therefore I conclude that she must have been entire master of the strong feelings of which she speaks so plainly. I hope other young women will follow her example and learn the invaluable lessons of self-control that are so essential in every-day practical life, and especially so for Latter-day Saints.
Miss Mattie Horne’s school life was principally passed in the schools taught in the wards, except a couple of years at the Deseret University. She is a clever writer and has furnished some articles, as well as verses, for the Woman's Exponent, which were very well written and pleasing, showing that she has considerable ability in this direction.
Of Miss Mattie’s beaux and courtship, I know very little, except that she had many admirers, as it is a subject she never alluded to of her own accord and naturally I should imagine she had several offers of marriage, but she was very particular to whom she would pledge her hand and heart; in fact my own opinion is that she looked upon the responsibilities of wife and motherhood as so great, that only a true sense of the position of women in this Church would have influenced her to let her heart go out to any one. However she plighted her troth to a young man of good character and standing in the Church, one who had honorably filled a mission of two years in a foreign land. On the 30th of September, 1884, Joseph S. Tingey and Martha J. Home were united in marriage, her husband is the son of Bishop J. Tingey, of the 17th ward of this city, and has been for many years both before and ever since his marriage connected with the Deseret News Office; he is a worthy and estimable young man, and I believe fully appreciates the talents and ability of his wife, and I think they are happily mated for time and for all eternity according to the covenant.
A reception was held after the wedding at the residence of the bride’s parents where heart-felt congratulations were extended to the bride and bridegroom, who with bright prospects before them had just entered into matrimonial relations. I need not tell you of the beautiful gifts bestowed, or the sumptuous repast prepared for the assembled guests who had been invited to participate in the enjoyments of the occasion. The bridegroom was a fine looking young man and the bride charming in her pure white apparel, her dress and ornaments were simple and neat, no ostentation or superfluous display, flowers in artistic style were the only adornments I remember; but I recollect distinctly that she looked as pure as an angel.
On the 28th of October, 1885, a son was born to Brother and Sister Tingey, and was called for his father Joseph S., Jr. The mother afterwards suffered very greatly, though she was nursed with the tenderest care and solicitude and frequently administered to by the Elders and good sisters, yet she was a long time in recovering, and her severe illness left her weak and lame. Her implicit faith that she would yet be entirely healed by the power of God continued as firm as ever, although it seemed as if the destroyer was determined to hinder her active usefulness both at home and among the young people of Zion. After a time, however, her health improved and she was able to travel occasionally into other Stakes of Zion and wherever she went she bore a strong testimony to the power of healing manifested in her behalf through the ordinances of the holy Priesthood.
In October, 1888, in a conjoint conference of the Y. M. and Y. L. Associations in the large Tabernacle in this city, Mrs. Tingey made an eloquent speech that attracted the attention of the large congregation assembled there; in fact, she seemed fairly to outdo herself, and her earnest words thrilled the hearts of the audience and produced a telling if not a lasting effect.
Such young women as Mrs. Tingey are a great blessing in Zion, her quiet demeanor and noble example are an influence in themselves, potent for good wherever she is seen and known. She is in every sense of the word a lover of home, yet when duty calls her, she is more than willing to sacrifice ease and comfort to help in the great work of redemption by imparting to others those simple truths that have proved a lamp to her feet and a light to her path. Mrs. Tingey as one of the Central Board of the Y. L. M. I. A. fills a most important position, and her work will increase as Zion enlarges her borders. Many blessings have been pronounced upon her head by prophets, patriarchs and mothers in Israel. The words of Solomon, “She openeth her mouth with wisdom, and in her tongue is the law of kindness,” might well be applied to this young woman.
That her life may be prolonged to fill the mission to which she has been appointed, is the wish and prayer of the many thousands of those who have the best interests of the young women of Zion at heart. E. B. W.
"Martha Horne Tingey." Young Woman's Journal. February 1899. pg. 92-93.
Martha Horne Tingey.
So many faithful years has Sister Tingey stood at the head of our Associations as Second Counselor to Pres. Elmina S. Taylor that it would seem as if no introduction of her were necessary. Yet shall she be introduced to you in a character which perhaps is entirely new to you. You who have seen the slight figure and modest, gentle manners of the sister, you who have listened to the eloquent, thrilling words which move all hearts when she herself is moved upon by the Holy Spirit, you may think you know Sister Tingey; but beneath the quiet repose of her manner there dwells a power and strength like unto the great and forceful strength of her mother. Sister M. Isabella Horne. The simplicity of her character is like the fine drawn steel of a watch spring, thrilling under a touch, but firm and invincible in its delicate strength. Sister Tingey possesses masterly abilities; she is, for a woman, a remarkable financier; economical, wise and conservative in all her walks and ways. It was under her cautious and prudent management, assisted by the other members of the committee that the Journal achieved such signal financial success during the past year. Let every girl in Zion send up a grateful prayer for Sister Tingey that her frail body may be strengthened and her soul be blessed and comforted; may she live long to direct the financial fortunes of our beloved Journal.
Martha Horne Tingey.
So many faithful years has Sister Tingey stood at the head of our Associations as Second Counselor to Pres. Elmina S. Taylor that it would seem as if no introduction of her were necessary. Yet shall she be introduced to you in a character which perhaps is entirely new to you. You who have seen the slight figure and modest, gentle manners of the sister, you who have listened to the eloquent, thrilling words which move all hearts when she herself is moved upon by the Holy Spirit, you may think you know Sister Tingey; but beneath the quiet repose of her manner there dwells a power and strength like unto the great and forceful strength of her mother. Sister M. Isabella Horne. The simplicity of her character is like the fine drawn steel of a watch spring, thrilling under a touch, but firm and invincible in its delicate strength. Sister Tingey possesses masterly abilities; she is, for a woman, a remarkable financier; economical, wise and conservative in all her walks and ways. It was under her cautious and prudent management, assisted by the other members of the committee that the Journal achieved such signal financial success during the past year. Let every girl in Zion send up a grateful prayer for Sister Tingey that her frail body may be strengthened and her soul be blessed and comforted; may she live long to direct the financial fortunes of our beloved Journal.
"Martha Horne Tingey." Young Woman's Journal. June 1905. pg. 260-261.
MARTHA HORNE TINGEY.
We honor those whom God honors, is a trite maxim in our church. Surely our girls will delight to honor one, who, through His authorized servants has been called to preside over the Y. L. M. I. A. of Zion. For twenty-five years, ever since the General Board was first organized in 1880, Martha Horne Tingey has labored as a wise counselor by the side of our late beloved President Elmina S. Taylor. She has been faithful, true and capable, with a great love of the work in her heart, ever willing to do her duty as God gave her strength to do it.
President Martha H. Tingey was born Oct. 15, 1857, in the Fourteenth ward, Salt Lake City, and is the daughter of Joseph and M. Isabella Horne, who bear the proud distinction of being intimately acquainted with the Prophet Joseph Smith, coming up through much tribulation, having endured the drivings and persecutions that were common to the Saints in early days.
An honored daughter of the worthy couple, true to her parentage and loyal to her people, Martha
H. Tingey has always been since she was old enough to understand, and that was at a very early age, as she was always thoughtful and spiritual minded. When a very little girl she delighted to steal into the parlor and listen to the conversation of the fathers and mothers of Zion, who often visited her mother’s home. By this means she was privileged to make the acquaintance of some of the best men and women in the church. As a young girl, she was an active, energetic member in all the organizations of the young people. She was a sweet singer, had considerable ability as an elocutionist, and was consequently a popular member in the associations.
One of my first recollections of Sister Tingey dates back to one of our Pioneer Day celebrations, when she was one of twenty-four young ladies who, with the same number of our handsome boys, took part in the procession. She was truly pretty and graceful in her creamy white riding habit—all the girls wore this uniform—and mounted on her prancing steed she helped to make a scene so inspiring that it will never be effaced from my memory. But scenes change and youth is fleeting.
When sixteen years of age Sister Tingey identified herself with the Young Ladies’ Retrenchment Association, which had been founded by President Brigham Young in June, 1869. When the Primary Association was first organized in the Fourteenth Ward, Sister Clara C. Cannon selected her as one of her Counselors. She was also a counselor in the Y. L. M. I. A. of the same ward for several years. We may say that she has taken part in all the works of righteousness from her childhood up.
Sister Tingey was brought up to be a prudent, industrious home keeper, and was not ashamed to labor with her hands to obtain a livelihood. For ten years she worked at typesetting, being one of six young girls who consented to learn this branch of newspaper work at the request of President Brigham Young and Apostle George Q. Cannon. This was a great help to her, for while using her hands she was also storing her mind with useful knowledge. During this time she met her future husband, Joseph S. Tingey who was and still is connected with the Deseret News office.
She was united in the sacred bonds of matrimony, according to the law of the Lord, on the 30th of September, 1884. Six sons and one daughter are the result of this congenial and happy union.
Like our late President, Sister Tingey is distinctively a home woman, proud of her husband and children, fully realizing that the positions of wife and mother are first in importance to the true Latter-day Saint. Like her, too, she has proved that women can, through the blessings of God, do much outside of the home to benefit His children. She has traveled much for the advancement of the Mutual Improvement work. In 1893, in company with a number of ladies, she went as a delegate, paying her own expenses, as did all the others, and gave a paper at one of the sessions of the World’s Congress of Women held during the Fair at Chicago. Again in 1899, as proxy for the President, she attended the Triennial of the National Council of Women, held in Washington, D. C., where she presented a topic, “The Possibilities of Women.”
President Tingey has a petite figure, a pleasant countenance and a winning personality. She is a careful, impressive public speaker, having a fine voice and clear articulation. She is modest, humble and retiring in her disposition, yet firm, fearless and unhesitating in expressing her convictions.
We can verily say of her that her practical education and natural qualifications eminently fit her for the position to which she has been called, and we bespeak for her the love and loyalty of Zion’s daughters, and the blessings of God to guide her in all her administrations for their benefit.
MARTHA HORNE TINGEY.
We honor those whom God honors, is a trite maxim in our church. Surely our girls will delight to honor one, who, through His authorized servants has been called to preside over the Y. L. M. I. A. of Zion. For twenty-five years, ever since the General Board was first organized in 1880, Martha Horne Tingey has labored as a wise counselor by the side of our late beloved President Elmina S. Taylor. She has been faithful, true and capable, with a great love of the work in her heart, ever willing to do her duty as God gave her strength to do it.
President Martha H. Tingey was born Oct. 15, 1857, in the Fourteenth ward, Salt Lake City, and is the daughter of Joseph and M. Isabella Horne, who bear the proud distinction of being intimately acquainted with the Prophet Joseph Smith, coming up through much tribulation, having endured the drivings and persecutions that were common to the Saints in early days.
An honored daughter of the worthy couple, true to her parentage and loyal to her people, Martha
H. Tingey has always been since she was old enough to understand, and that was at a very early age, as she was always thoughtful and spiritual minded. When a very little girl she delighted to steal into the parlor and listen to the conversation of the fathers and mothers of Zion, who often visited her mother’s home. By this means she was privileged to make the acquaintance of some of the best men and women in the church. As a young girl, she was an active, energetic member in all the organizations of the young people. She was a sweet singer, had considerable ability as an elocutionist, and was consequently a popular member in the associations.
One of my first recollections of Sister Tingey dates back to one of our Pioneer Day celebrations, when she was one of twenty-four young ladies who, with the same number of our handsome boys, took part in the procession. She was truly pretty and graceful in her creamy white riding habit—all the girls wore this uniform—and mounted on her prancing steed she helped to make a scene so inspiring that it will never be effaced from my memory. But scenes change and youth is fleeting.
When sixteen years of age Sister Tingey identified herself with the Young Ladies’ Retrenchment Association, which had been founded by President Brigham Young in June, 1869. When the Primary Association was first organized in the Fourteenth Ward, Sister Clara C. Cannon selected her as one of her Counselors. She was also a counselor in the Y. L. M. I. A. of the same ward for several years. We may say that she has taken part in all the works of righteousness from her childhood up.
Sister Tingey was brought up to be a prudent, industrious home keeper, and was not ashamed to labor with her hands to obtain a livelihood. For ten years she worked at typesetting, being one of six young girls who consented to learn this branch of newspaper work at the request of President Brigham Young and Apostle George Q. Cannon. This was a great help to her, for while using her hands she was also storing her mind with useful knowledge. During this time she met her future husband, Joseph S. Tingey who was and still is connected with the Deseret News office.
She was united in the sacred bonds of matrimony, according to the law of the Lord, on the 30th of September, 1884. Six sons and one daughter are the result of this congenial and happy union.
Like our late President, Sister Tingey is distinctively a home woman, proud of her husband and children, fully realizing that the positions of wife and mother are first in importance to the true Latter-day Saint. Like her, too, she has proved that women can, through the blessings of God, do much outside of the home to benefit His children. She has traveled much for the advancement of the Mutual Improvement work. In 1893, in company with a number of ladies, she went as a delegate, paying her own expenses, as did all the others, and gave a paper at one of the sessions of the World’s Congress of Women held during the Fair at Chicago. Again in 1899, as proxy for the President, she attended the Triennial of the National Council of Women, held in Washington, D. C., where she presented a topic, “The Possibilities of Women.”
President Tingey has a petite figure, a pleasant countenance and a winning personality. She is a careful, impressive public speaker, having a fine voice and clear articulation. She is modest, humble and retiring in her disposition, yet firm, fearless and unhesitating in expressing her convictions.
We can verily say of her that her practical education and natural qualifications eminently fit her for the position to which she has been called, and we bespeak for her the love and loyalty of Zion’s daughters, and the blessings of God to guide her in all her administrations for their benefit.
Caldwell, Estelle Neff. "Martha Horne Tingey." Young Woman's Journal. March 1915. pg. 143-144.
Martha Horne Tingey.
By Estelle Neff Caldwell.
In the purposeful novel written by Henry Bordeaux, “The Fear of Living,” its heroine Madam Guibert, a woman of sixty, having a vigorous, well preserved constitution, is represented as an old woman. Descriptions of her abound in such expressions as “age and weakness hanging like heavy weights,” “waiting fearlessly for death,” etc. Unless such emphasis of her decrepitude is used by the author for artistic effect, it must be that his acquaintances grow old earlier than do the women of our communities. The distinguished women presented in our frontispiece, the presidents of three auxiliary organizations of the Church, the Relief Society, the Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Association, and the Primary Association, who have been leaders from their youth up, are not old women. Even at the age of eighty-seven Aunt Emmeline is young of heart. All of them are to be congratulated on having escaped so wonderfully the tyranny of years. The youngest one, President Tingey, is a grandmother and is within a few years of Madam Guibert’s age, displaying the same ripeness of intellect, forbearance, and wisdom, yet she is in the prime of life. Her interest in youth and continuous association with youthful activities have kept her young.
As a character analysis is difficult to accomplish, this sketch aims only to portray a few of Sister Tingey’s characteristics in the hope that the portrayal will appear just to those who are well acquainted with her, and also that it will encourage Journal readers to emulate these prominent virtues.
Sister Tingey is the daughter of Joseph and Mary Isabella Horne, being her mother’s fourteenth child. When she was but twenty-two years of age she was honored by President Elmina S. Taylor in being chosen as counselor to that great leader. At the demise of Sister Taylor, she was called, in 1905, to fill the initial office of the presidency. She has stood at the apex of Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement work for nearly thirty-five years, discharging every duty with modesty, exactitude and honor.
A few years after accepting the office of counselor, she was married to Joseph S. Tingey. She has seven children, five of whom are living, four sons and one daughter.
Brother and Sister Tingey have been mutually helpful through thirty years of wedded life. His encouragement has helped her in the performance of her duties, public and private. With his co-operation her home-making qualities have come into full florescence. To her credit it can be said, in truth, she has never allowed her public career to decrease her efficiency as a mother, or to diminish the order, system, and thriftiness of her home. She belongs to that industrious class of women which has a faculty for maintaining order, after having induced it out of chaos.
A cursory study of President Tingey’s character and ability reveals unusual mental and moral qualifications for leadership. If asked to describe her in a word one would use the word genuine.
Her features are clear-cut and give the impression of repose. The high forehead shows intellectuality, from out the clear eyes shine candor and good-will, while the firm lips and decided chin tell of courage and inflexible resolution. Habitual rectitude of conduct imparts to her a loftiness of spirit which distinguishes her as one who lives a pure and open life.
Her manner of dressing when she was a girl was simple, serviceable, neat, immaculate; today, and every day since, at home and abroad, her dress has been simple, serviceable, neat, immaculate.
Sister Tingey is cautious and conservative, and possesses the sterling qualities of steadfastness of purpose, fidelity, fortitude, and perfect integrity.
Her clear voice, and tranquil manner, combined with the wisdom and earnestness of her public utterances, quickly win the confidence of an audience.
She has an aversion to insincerity in any form. There would be no intrigue, nor even innocent diplomacy if all people were of her straightforward disposition. Though tenacious of her opinions and rights, still, she prefers to wait patiently for justice to be done her. rather than to importune for it, or to force it, either by artifice or aggression.
It is a notable fact that her disinterested service in the Mutual Improvement cause has but few parallels in the Church.
Sister Tingey brings to the General Board meetings over which she presides, equable spirits, firmness, self-possession, and coolness of judgment. One observes that her memory is excellent, her talks, and likewise her decisions, are direct, wise, forceful, and effective.
Sister Tingey’s crowning characteristic is implicit faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, faith in its adequacy to overthrow evil, unfailing faith in its power to purify and elevate the youth of Zion.
Officer or member, when tempted to fail because it seems impossible to do what you are asked to do in Mutual because you are weak and sick, take heart, and struggle on for your president struggled thus through years of invalidism. When you fall short because, through adversity, you are overtaxed with care, trust in her mercy for she, too, has had this experience. Are you making daily sacrifices to do your public duty? Be encouraged by her unerring appreciation for she, too, is making daily sacrifices to perform public service.
EXTRACTS FROM SISTER TINGEY’S ADDRESSES.
“We as Latter-day Saints want to be a peculiar people. We have been called to carry the Gospel message to the world. Our young people, are an army; we are called soldiers of Christ, and we want to be the truest and bravest soldiers that ever fought a battle. Our battle is against evil and the errors of the world.”
“We should appreciate these bodies that have been given to us. We should seek to make them strong and healthy, that they may be fit tabernacles for our spirits to dwell in.”
“We feel and know that the power of the Latter-day Saints consists in the testimony of the Spirit of God that burns within their hearts. We are told that knowledge is power. That means that the knowledge of the truth, the knowledge of God and His revealed plan is a power to every one who possesses it.”
Martha H. Tingey.
Martha Horne Tingey.
By Estelle Neff Caldwell.
In the purposeful novel written by Henry Bordeaux, “The Fear of Living,” its heroine Madam Guibert, a woman of sixty, having a vigorous, well preserved constitution, is represented as an old woman. Descriptions of her abound in such expressions as “age and weakness hanging like heavy weights,” “waiting fearlessly for death,” etc. Unless such emphasis of her decrepitude is used by the author for artistic effect, it must be that his acquaintances grow old earlier than do the women of our communities. The distinguished women presented in our frontispiece, the presidents of three auxiliary organizations of the Church, the Relief Society, the Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Association, and the Primary Association, who have been leaders from their youth up, are not old women. Even at the age of eighty-seven Aunt Emmeline is young of heart. All of them are to be congratulated on having escaped so wonderfully the tyranny of years. The youngest one, President Tingey, is a grandmother and is within a few years of Madam Guibert’s age, displaying the same ripeness of intellect, forbearance, and wisdom, yet she is in the prime of life. Her interest in youth and continuous association with youthful activities have kept her young.
As a character analysis is difficult to accomplish, this sketch aims only to portray a few of Sister Tingey’s characteristics in the hope that the portrayal will appear just to those who are well acquainted with her, and also that it will encourage Journal readers to emulate these prominent virtues.
Sister Tingey is the daughter of Joseph and Mary Isabella Horne, being her mother’s fourteenth child. When she was but twenty-two years of age she was honored by President Elmina S. Taylor in being chosen as counselor to that great leader. At the demise of Sister Taylor, she was called, in 1905, to fill the initial office of the presidency. She has stood at the apex of Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement work for nearly thirty-five years, discharging every duty with modesty, exactitude and honor.
A few years after accepting the office of counselor, she was married to Joseph S. Tingey. She has seven children, five of whom are living, four sons and one daughter.
Brother and Sister Tingey have been mutually helpful through thirty years of wedded life. His encouragement has helped her in the performance of her duties, public and private. With his co-operation her home-making qualities have come into full florescence. To her credit it can be said, in truth, she has never allowed her public career to decrease her efficiency as a mother, or to diminish the order, system, and thriftiness of her home. She belongs to that industrious class of women which has a faculty for maintaining order, after having induced it out of chaos.
A cursory study of President Tingey’s character and ability reveals unusual mental and moral qualifications for leadership. If asked to describe her in a word one would use the word genuine.
Her features are clear-cut and give the impression of repose. The high forehead shows intellectuality, from out the clear eyes shine candor and good-will, while the firm lips and decided chin tell of courage and inflexible resolution. Habitual rectitude of conduct imparts to her a loftiness of spirit which distinguishes her as one who lives a pure and open life.
Her manner of dressing when she was a girl was simple, serviceable, neat, immaculate; today, and every day since, at home and abroad, her dress has been simple, serviceable, neat, immaculate.
Sister Tingey is cautious and conservative, and possesses the sterling qualities of steadfastness of purpose, fidelity, fortitude, and perfect integrity.
Her clear voice, and tranquil manner, combined with the wisdom and earnestness of her public utterances, quickly win the confidence of an audience.
She has an aversion to insincerity in any form. There would be no intrigue, nor even innocent diplomacy if all people were of her straightforward disposition. Though tenacious of her opinions and rights, still, she prefers to wait patiently for justice to be done her. rather than to importune for it, or to force it, either by artifice or aggression.
It is a notable fact that her disinterested service in the Mutual Improvement cause has but few parallels in the Church.
Sister Tingey brings to the General Board meetings over which she presides, equable spirits, firmness, self-possession, and coolness of judgment. One observes that her memory is excellent, her talks, and likewise her decisions, are direct, wise, forceful, and effective.
Sister Tingey’s crowning characteristic is implicit faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, faith in its adequacy to overthrow evil, unfailing faith in its power to purify and elevate the youth of Zion.
Officer or member, when tempted to fail because it seems impossible to do what you are asked to do in Mutual because you are weak and sick, take heart, and struggle on for your president struggled thus through years of invalidism. When you fall short because, through adversity, you are overtaxed with care, trust in her mercy for she, too, has had this experience. Are you making daily sacrifices to do your public duty? Be encouraged by her unerring appreciation for she, too, is making daily sacrifices to perform public service.
EXTRACTS FROM SISTER TINGEY’S ADDRESSES.
“We as Latter-day Saints want to be a peculiar people. We have been called to carry the Gospel message to the world. Our young people, are an army; we are called soldiers of Christ, and we want to be the truest and bravest soldiers that ever fought a battle. Our battle is against evil and the errors of the world.”
“We should appreciate these bodies that have been given to us. We should seek to make them strong and healthy, that they may be fit tabernacles for our spirits to dwell in.”
“We feel and know that the power of the Latter-day Saints consists in the testimony of the Spirit of God that burns within their hearts. We are told that knowledge is power. That means that the knowledge of the truth, the knowledge of God and His revealed plan is a power to every one who possesses it.”
Martha H. Tingey.
Nystrom, Mae Taylor. "A Tribute to Martha H. Tingey." Young Woman's Journal. October 1917. pg. 530-532.
A Tribute to Martha H. Tingey.
By Mae Taylor Nystrom.
On October 15th three score years ago our beloved President Martha H. Tingey was born. The character that has been moulded and developed in those sixty years is one to inspire every Mutual Improvement girl. Her many virtues make her an ideal for those who desire to attain to a perfect womanhood. Those who know President Tingey respect her for that steadfast devotion to duty and undaunted courage in the face of bodily weakness and suffering in carrying on the work entrusted to her.
We honor her, because like Hannah of old she has found favor in the sight of God. He has blessed her with wisdom and great treasures of knowledge. He has magnified her in the eyes of her people and extended her influence throughout Zion.
We love her for her innate modesty, her pure heart, her kindly nature, and her rich endowment of mind and spirit. President Tingey is a true, consistent Latter-day Saint who exemplifies in her everyday life the principles she so strongly advocates. She has a wonderful knowledge of the Gospel and a sublime faith in God and His great Latter-day work.
Sister Tingey fully realizes the possibilities of her womanhood and as daughter, as wife and as mother she has striven to live up to her highest ideals. “Honor thy father and thy mother” was her religious code as a girl and the love and devotion she gave her parents were beautiful.
The power is not given to every woman to keep her husband still her lover through many years of married life. In doing so President Tingey has shown that she has been a comrade to her husband as well as helpmate and wise counselor. In her home she reigns as queen and no subject gives more willing homage than does he to whom she entrusted her happiness as a girl. A beautiful love exists between them which grows stronger as the years go by.
Motherhood has been, the supreme joy of Sister Tingey’s life. Every woman must feel that the greatest test of her success in life lies in the standard of pure, noble manhood and womanhood attained by her children. By this test Sister Tingey can surely count her life a success. One sweet, modest daughter and four stalwart sons, three of whom have carried the Gospel message to foreign lands, bear witness of this.
Surrounded by a loving husband, kind and dutiful children, a host of warm friends and thousands of girls who honor and love her for her words of encouragement, her love for them and her untiring service in their cause surely our dear President can find much to comfort and cheer her.
May God bless her and prolong her life yet many years to be our standard bearer, our guide, and our wise counselor. May He renew her health, increase her power to serve and give her joy in her home an I in the great work she has so mud* at heart. And the girls of Zion say “Amen!”
A Tribute to Martha H. Tingey.
By Mae Taylor Nystrom.
On October 15th three score years ago our beloved President Martha H. Tingey was born. The character that has been moulded and developed in those sixty years is one to inspire every Mutual Improvement girl. Her many virtues make her an ideal for those who desire to attain to a perfect womanhood. Those who know President Tingey respect her for that steadfast devotion to duty and undaunted courage in the face of bodily weakness and suffering in carrying on the work entrusted to her.
We honor her, because like Hannah of old she has found favor in the sight of God. He has blessed her with wisdom and great treasures of knowledge. He has magnified her in the eyes of her people and extended her influence throughout Zion.
We love her for her innate modesty, her pure heart, her kindly nature, and her rich endowment of mind and spirit. President Tingey is a true, consistent Latter-day Saint who exemplifies in her everyday life the principles she so strongly advocates. She has a wonderful knowledge of the Gospel and a sublime faith in God and His great Latter-day work.
Sister Tingey fully realizes the possibilities of her womanhood and as daughter, as wife and as mother she has striven to live up to her highest ideals. “Honor thy father and thy mother” was her religious code as a girl and the love and devotion she gave her parents were beautiful.
The power is not given to every woman to keep her husband still her lover through many years of married life. In doing so President Tingey has shown that she has been a comrade to her husband as well as helpmate and wise counselor. In her home she reigns as queen and no subject gives more willing homage than does he to whom she entrusted her happiness as a girl. A beautiful love exists between them which grows stronger as the years go by.
Motherhood has been, the supreme joy of Sister Tingey’s life. Every woman must feel that the greatest test of her success in life lies in the standard of pure, noble manhood and womanhood attained by her children. By this test Sister Tingey can surely count her life a success. One sweet, modest daughter and four stalwart sons, three of whom have carried the Gospel message to foreign lands, bear witness of this.
Surrounded by a loving husband, kind and dutiful children, a host of warm friends and thousands of girls who honor and love her for her words of encouragement, her love for them and her untiring service in their cause surely our dear President can find much to comfort and cheer her.
May God bless her and prolong her life yet many years to be our standard bearer, our guide, and our wise counselor. May He renew her health, increase her power to serve and give her joy in her home an I in the great work she has so mud* at heart. And the girls of Zion say “Amen!”
"President Martha H. Tingey." Young Woman's Journal. October 1917. pg. 564.
President Martha H. Tingey
The Journal in behalf of its many readers extends sincere con gratulations to President Martha H. Tingey on her sixtieth birthday which occurs October 15th.
Sister Tingey is well fitted to preside over the young women of Zion. Her integrity, her faith in the Gospel, her wise judgment, her moral courage qualify her for this responsible position.
Those who know her best love her best. They feel the strength of her uplifting influence and the spirit of peace, which accompanies her.
We wish our President long life, health, and continued joy in her labors.
President Martha H. Tingey
The Journal in behalf of its many readers extends sincere con gratulations to President Martha H. Tingey on her sixtieth birthday which occurs October 15th.
Sister Tingey is well fitted to preside over the young women of Zion. Her integrity, her faith in the Gospel, her wise judgment, her moral courage qualify her for this responsible position.
Those who know her best love her best. They feel the strength of her uplifting influence and the spirit of peace, which accompanies her.
We wish our President long life, health, and continued joy in her labors.
"Forty Years of Service." Young Woman's Journal. July 1920. pg. 415.
Forty Years of Service
On June 19th of this year occurred the fortieth anniversary of the organization of the three women’s General Boards of the Church—the Relief Society, the Y. L. M. I. A., and the Primary, for they were all organized on the same day (June 19, 1880), under the direction of President John Taylor. Two of our present General Presidents were appointed to the Presidencies on that same date and have served during the entire period of forty years.
MARTHA HORNE TINGEY.
President Martha H. Tingey was selected as a counselor to President Elmina S. Taylor of the Y. L. M. I. A. and remained in that position for twenty-five years when she became the General President of the organization.
The officers and girls over whom she presides may well be proud of their leader for her life is an example to them in the things which make for true womanhood. She is first of all a real Latter-day Saint and her faith in God has been unswerving from the beginning. This faith, together with her determination to loyally discharge her duties both to her family and in her public life, have been her predominating characteristics. She never seeks honor or praise but with humility does her duty as she sees it. Her associates respect and love her for her fidelity and unselfishness and patience; they admire her for her high ideals. The Lord has blessed her with remarkable judgment and wisdom, qualities so necessary for a presiding officer.
May the life of our President be spared for many years to stand at the head of this great army of Zion’s daughters.
Forty Years of Service
On June 19th of this year occurred the fortieth anniversary of the organization of the three women’s General Boards of the Church—the Relief Society, the Y. L. M. I. A., and the Primary, for they were all organized on the same day (June 19, 1880), under the direction of President John Taylor. Two of our present General Presidents were appointed to the Presidencies on that same date and have served during the entire period of forty years.
MARTHA HORNE TINGEY.
President Martha H. Tingey was selected as a counselor to President Elmina S. Taylor of the Y. L. M. I. A. and remained in that position for twenty-five years when she became the General President of the organization.
The officers and girls over whom she presides may well be proud of their leader for her life is an example to them in the things which make for true womanhood. She is first of all a real Latter-day Saint and her faith in God has been unswerving from the beginning. This faith, together with her determination to loyally discharge her duties both to her family and in her public life, have been her predominating characteristics. She never seeks honor or praise but with humility does her duty as she sees it. Her associates respect and love her for her fidelity and unselfishness and patience; they admire her for her high ideals. The Lord has blessed her with remarkable judgment and wisdom, qualities so necessary for a presiding officer.
May the life of our President be spared for many years to stand at the head of this great army of Zion’s daughters.
"Our President." Young Woman's Journal. May 1925. pg. 287.
Our President
Forty-five years in the Presidency, twenty years as President of a great organization of young women! Forty-five years of faithful, devoted service to a cause; a service rendered, notwithstanding physical frailty, unselfishly and courageously. That is the record of our beloved President Martha Herne Tingey, who in June, 1880 was called to act as second Counselor to President Elmina S. Taylor and in April, 1905, to succeed Sister Taylor as President of the Y. L. M. I. A. The love and good wishes of her fifty thousand girls are with her: may she yet many years be their leader!
Our President
Forty-five years in the Presidency, twenty years as President of a great organization of young women! Forty-five years of faithful, devoted service to a cause; a service rendered, notwithstanding physical frailty, unselfishly and courageously. That is the record of our beloved President Martha Herne Tingey, who in June, 1880 was called to act as second Counselor to President Elmina S. Taylor and in April, 1905, to succeed Sister Taylor as President of the Y. L. M. I. A. The love and good wishes of her fifty thousand girls are with her: may she yet many years be their leader!
Goddard, Emma. "The Y. L. M. I. A. Under President Martha H. Tingey." Young Woman's Journal. June 1925. pg. 332-335.
The Y. L. M. I. A. Under President Martha H. Tingey
By Emma Goddard
THE laying of the foundation stones of any great structure, especially when that structure is to be unique, following no previous design, necessarily requires unusual wisdom and vision. These qualities were preeminently manifest throughout President Elmina S. Taylor’s administration.
Her death was a grievous blow to the organization and especially to her two able Counselors who had so zealously sustained her through the intricate paths of a new organization. However, as always, a work inspired of God has life within itself amply sufficient to carry it forward to its ultimate goal.
In April, 1905. Martha H. Tingey, who had been Sister Taylor’s Counselor for twenty-five years was called by President Joseph F. Smith to the presidency with Ruth May Fox and Mae Taylor Nystrom as her Counselors.
During her administration the growth of the Y. L. M. I. A. has been varied, rapid, and pronounced.
One of the first much appreciated blessings that came to the General Board was the completion of the Bishop’s Building and occupancy of the splendid and commodious rooms in the same. At that time there were two divisions only in our associations, the Senior and Junior. The studies were along theological, literary, musical, and ethical lines. In 1915 the Bee-Hive department was organized for the benefit of our younger girls, adding an entirely new feature to the work. Books with definitely planned work have been issued, and from time to time helpful demonstrations and conventions have been held and practical help in various lines given to the Bee-Keepers.
Later an Advanced Senior Class came into being and still later a Junior department was organized for girls between the Bee-Hive and Senior ages. For both of these groups special courses of study were provided. The Senior department has always been maintained with established courses chiefly of a religious nature but supplemented with others of special interest to young women. In 1922 Senior classes wherever desiring to do so, were permitted to organize as “Gleaner Girls.” These groups are officered by the girls themselves under the supervision of the class leader and the last half hour of the regular lesson period is utilized for work programed by the girls, thus developing their powers of leadership and bringing into action their own initiative.
Each June an Annual Conference is held, where delegates from all the Stakes assemble and are given special instructions and demonstrations in their different departmental work. Annual conventions also are held in every stake where again definite help is given and the coming year’s work discussed. For several years Leadership courses have been given in our respective Church Schools, where representatives from all the stakes may receive free professional training. These classes have been well attended and splendid results have accrued therefrom.
Two Y. L. M. I. A. hand books with detailed instructions to officers have been issued.
The Journal has greatly increased its subscription list and also maintained its high standard of contents, aiming always to place before its readers the cleanest and best material for character building.
During the war the Mutuals did a noble work, promptly meeting every call made upon them.
Many of the stakes have built beautiful Summer homes where our girls may spend their vacations, under proper supervision and most pleasant and healthful conditions.
Recently supervision in Recreation for the whole Church was given to the M. I. A. in cooperation with representatives from all the other auxiliary associations. Satisfactory results have been obtained thus far, with promise of still greater achievements in the future.
Our stakes have increased from 56 to 94 in the last two decades and the wards number nearly 1000 at the present time: hence the stake boards have had to be continually augmented. On July 5, 1923, Mae T. Nystrom, after 18 years of devoted, efficient service, was released as second counselor to President Tingey and Lucy Grant Cannon was sustained in this position. The General Board now comprises thirty-five members.
The work has grown greatly in the mission fields, many of the associations comparing favorably with those in the regularly organized wards.
The effect of our diversified activities has given to the organization many hundreds of fine, efficient, unselfish, willing officers. They are worthy of all honor and gratitude for their untiring devotion. In many stakes the scattered condition of the wards has necessitated travel of hundreds of miles by auto and in earlier days by teams, sometimes driven by our sisters themselves. These noble women, nothing daunted, have cheerfully performed these arduous tasks from year to year. May God abundantly bless and reward them!
And what of our membership? Fifty thousand! A veritable army of sweet, pure, intelligent, gifted girls! Frivolous and light-minded some may appear but for the most part they are lovers of the truth and deep down in their hearts they have a testimony of the Gospel and a desire to be true to its requirements.
Daughters of Zion, arise and shine in your purity and be worthy of the heritage that is yours. May you have strength and power to combat and conquer the temptations that daily surround you. May you appreciate and improve your opportunities and the great and important missions that await you. In the words of the Psalmist of old. “may our daughters he as corner stones, polished after the similitude of a palace.”
By the splendor of your lives make the world acknowledge there is something great and wonderful in the principles you stand for. God bless and help you to bring honor and glory to His great and holy name!
The Y. L. M. I. A. Under President Martha H. Tingey
By Emma Goddard
THE laying of the foundation stones of any great structure, especially when that structure is to be unique, following no previous design, necessarily requires unusual wisdom and vision. These qualities were preeminently manifest throughout President Elmina S. Taylor’s administration.
Her death was a grievous blow to the organization and especially to her two able Counselors who had so zealously sustained her through the intricate paths of a new organization. However, as always, a work inspired of God has life within itself amply sufficient to carry it forward to its ultimate goal.
In April, 1905. Martha H. Tingey, who had been Sister Taylor’s Counselor for twenty-five years was called by President Joseph F. Smith to the presidency with Ruth May Fox and Mae Taylor Nystrom as her Counselors.
During her administration the growth of the Y. L. M. I. A. has been varied, rapid, and pronounced.
One of the first much appreciated blessings that came to the General Board was the completion of the Bishop’s Building and occupancy of the splendid and commodious rooms in the same. At that time there were two divisions only in our associations, the Senior and Junior. The studies were along theological, literary, musical, and ethical lines. In 1915 the Bee-Hive department was organized for the benefit of our younger girls, adding an entirely new feature to the work. Books with definitely planned work have been issued, and from time to time helpful demonstrations and conventions have been held and practical help in various lines given to the Bee-Keepers.
Later an Advanced Senior Class came into being and still later a Junior department was organized for girls between the Bee-Hive and Senior ages. For both of these groups special courses of study were provided. The Senior department has always been maintained with established courses chiefly of a religious nature but supplemented with others of special interest to young women. In 1922 Senior classes wherever desiring to do so, were permitted to organize as “Gleaner Girls.” These groups are officered by the girls themselves under the supervision of the class leader and the last half hour of the regular lesson period is utilized for work programed by the girls, thus developing their powers of leadership and bringing into action their own initiative.
Each June an Annual Conference is held, where delegates from all the Stakes assemble and are given special instructions and demonstrations in their different departmental work. Annual conventions also are held in every stake where again definite help is given and the coming year’s work discussed. For several years Leadership courses have been given in our respective Church Schools, where representatives from all the stakes may receive free professional training. These classes have been well attended and splendid results have accrued therefrom.
Two Y. L. M. I. A. hand books with detailed instructions to officers have been issued.
The Journal has greatly increased its subscription list and also maintained its high standard of contents, aiming always to place before its readers the cleanest and best material for character building.
During the war the Mutuals did a noble work, promptly meeting every call made upon them.
Many of the stakes have built beautiful Summer homes where our girls may spend their vacations, under proper supervision and most pleasant and healthful conditions.
Recently supervision in Recreation for the whole Church was given to the M. I. A. in cooperation with representatives from all the other auxiliary associations. Satisfactory results have been obtained thus far, with promise of still greater achievements in the future.
Our stakes have increased from 56 to 94 in the last two decades and the wards number nearly 1000 at the present time: hence the stake boards have had to be continually augmented. On July 5, 1923, Mae T. Nystrom, after 18 years of devoted, efficient service, was released as second counselor to President Tingey and Lucy Grant Cannon was sustained in this position. The General Board now comprises thirty-five members.
The work has grown greatly in the mission fields, many of the associations comparing favorably with those in the regularly organized wards.
The effect of our diversified activities has given to the organization many hundreds of fine, efficient, unselfish, willing officers. They are worthy of all honor and gratitude for their untiring devotion. In many stakes the scattered condition of the wards has necessitated travel of hundreds of miles by auto and in earlier days by teams, sometimes driven by our sisters themselves. These noble women, nothing daunted, have cheerfully performed these arduous tasks from year to year. May God abundantly bless and reward them!
And what of our membership? Fifty thousand! A veritable army of sweet, pure, intelligent, gifted girls! Frivolous and light-minded some may appear but for the most part they are lovers of the truth and deep down in their hearts they have a testimony of the Gospel and a desire to be true to its requirements.
Daughters of Zion, arise and shine in your purity and be worthy of the heritage that is yours. May you have strength and power to combat and conquer the temptations that daily surround you. May you appreciate and improve your opportunities and the great and important missions that await you. In the words of the Psalmist of old. “may our daughters he as corner stones, polished after the similitude of a palace.”
By the splendor of your lives make the world acknowledge there is something great and wonderful in the principles you stand for. God bless and help you to bring honor and glory to His great and holy name!
"President Martha H. Tingey." Young Woman's Journal. October 1927. pg. 624.
PRESIDENT MARTHA H. TINGEY
Whose Seventieth Birthday Occurs on October 15, 1927
Chicago, III.,
September 20th, 1927.
Though I am so far away I can not let this occasion pass without adding my tribute of appreciation to my dear friend and associate, Sister Martha Home Tingey. At this distance, as I think of her characteristics, there come before me her modesty, her courtesy, her true charity, in the sense of love for her fellows, and her perfect faith in and exposition of the principles of the Gospel,
In her deliberations she always defers to the opinion of her associates but when the occasion arises for her to make a decision she takes her stand with dignity and speaks with authority and we feel that she is right.
Dear Sister Tingey, I join with all your Board in wishing that you may have many more years of peace and health in which to exercise your gentle sway, and that prosperity and happiness and all good blessings may attend you.
Brother Grant joins me in these sentiments.
Believe me ever, your true friend,
—August W. Grant
PRESIDENT MARTHA H. TINGEY
Whose Seventieth Birthday Occurs on October 15, 1927
Chicago, III.,
September 20th, 1927.
Though I am so far away I can not let this occasion pass without adding my tribute of appreciation to my dear friend and associate, Sister Martha Home Tingey. At this distance, as I think of her characteristics, there come before me her modesty, her courtesy, her true charity, in the sense of love for her fellows, and her perfect faith in and exposition of the principles of the Gospel,
In her deliberations she always defers to the opinion of her associates but when the occasion arises for her to make a decision she takes her stand with dignity and speaks with authority and we feel that she is right.
Dear Sister Tingey, I join with all your Board in wishing that you may have many more years of peace and health in which to exercise your gentle sway, and that prosperity and happiness and all good blessings may attend you.
Brother Grant joins me in these sentiments.
Believe me ever, your true friend,
—August W. Grant
"Birthday Tributes by Members of the General Board." Young Woman's Journal. October 1927. pg. 625.
Birthday Tributes by Members of the General Board
For eleven years it has been my inestimable privilege to be closely associated with our beloved president. I honor and revere her as our leader and love her because of her womanly qualities. She is truly one of the pure in heart and is a guiding star to the young women of Zion. May her birthday be one of peace and happiness and her life enriched because of the love and respect in which she is held by all true Latter-day Saint women.
—Lucy G. Cannon.
You have given richly to your Mutual girls the best that you have, and splendid things in an ever-increasing number will constantly flow into your life.
—Maria Y. Dougall.
A born leader possessed of indomitable courage, infinite patience in suffering, with a sublime faith, and love and charity in her heart for all humanity. The Daughters of Zion would do well to cultivate her graces and virtues.
—Agnes S. Campbell.
Dear Sister Tingey;
My association with you has always been of the pleasantest. You have been loving and considerate of me, excusing my many faults and complimenting my virtues. I appreciate more than language can express the joy and satisfaction that has come to me during the years I have been privileged to work under your supervision. I have always admired you for your wise leadership and your ever careful decisions. I have loved you for the fortitude and patience with which you have borne your sorrows.
On this, your seventieth birthday, I join your many friends and especially the members of your Board in wishing you joy, peace and prosperity for many years yet to come.
—Emma Goddard.
Honest, sincere, devoted, unselfish has been President Tingey’s life. She has been a devoted wife and mother, a true friend, a faithful Latter-day Saint.
She is wise in counsel, clear in judgment, unflinching in the performance of her duty. Those who know her best honor her most.
—Mary C. Kimball.
Sister Tingey, you are dear to me. The sympathy and understanding which the human heart so desires in others finds a response in your inner soul.
You have a mother heart. As a group of workers, with your deep love you grip us, you hold us as one.
Your school of experience has well prepared you for your life's mission. You have been tutored under the inspiration of God's Spirit, which has taken out the dross and moulded, refined, and polished you for your great and responsible work.
I am sure God loves you, for your heart is in tune with His will. You seek Him like a trusting child. “Your faith is an attainment which leads to perfection.” Your wisdom a gift of God. Through humble supplication your spirit quickly responds to His will. Vision lights your path and tenderness measures your judgment. Zeal and devotion to your appointed leadership finds you never wavering to the left or right, for to you the end of the way is eternal life.
Through your devotion and integrity you have inspired and comforted me. May health, peace and joy immeasurable be yours in this life and finally eternal life in God's kingdom.
—Laura B. Dimond.
Sister Martha Horne Tingey; In remembrance of the many faithful years of service at the wheel of the Y. L. M. 1. A. we salute you. But slight of figure, modest and quiet of manner, unassuming, you are chosen to represent the young womanhood of this Church—a fitting symbol of the characteristics we are to emulate.
—Agnes Smith Knowlton.
Our beloved President Martha H. Tingey—she stands a pillar of strength for Gospel truths; a dependable guide for the young women of the Church, firing their hearts with love of God and dean living. In earnest discussion she shows clear, conservative judgment and with firmness and love renders decisions for the best interests of the young women of Zion and the work of the Lord. Long live our President!
—Jane B. Anderson.
Birthday Tributes by Members of the General Board
For eleven years it has been my inestimable privilege to be closely associated with our beloved president. I honor and revere her as our leader and love her because of her womanly qualities. She is truly one of the pure in heart and is a guiding star to the young women of Zion. May her birthday be one of peace and happiness and her life enriched because of the love and respect in which she is held by all true Latter-day Saint women.
—Lucy G. Cannon.
You have given richly to your Mutual girls the best that you have, and splendid things in an ever-increasing number will constantly flow into your life.
—Maria Y. Dougall.
A born leader possessed of indomitable courage, infinite patience in suffering, with a sublime faith, and love and charity in her heart for all humanity. The Daughters of Zion would do well to cultivate her graces and virtues.
—Agnes S. Campbell.
Dear Sister Tingey;
My association with you has always been of the pleasantest. You have been loving and considerate of me, excusing my many faults and complimenting my virtues. I appreciate more than language can express the joy and satisfaction that has come to me during the years I have been privileged to work under your supervision. I have always admired you for your wise leadership and your ever careful decisions. I have loved you for the fortitude and patience with which you have borne your sorrows.
On this, your seventieth birthday, I join your many friends and especially the members of your Board in wishing you joy, peace and prosperity for many years yet to come.
—Emma Goddard.
Honest, sincere, devoted, unselfish has been President Tingey’s life. She has been a devoted wife and mother, a true friend, a faithful Latter-day Saint.
She is wise in counsel, clear in judgment, unflinching in the performance of her duty. Those who know her best honor her most.
—Mary C. Kimball.
Sister Tingey, you are dear to me. The sympathy and understanding which the human heart so desires in others finds a response in your inner soul.
You have a mother heart. As a group of workers, with your deep love you grip us, you hold us as one.
Your school of experience has well prepared you for your life's mission. You have been tutored under the inspiration of God's Spirit, which has taken out the dross and moulded, refined, and polished you for your great and responsible work.
I am sure God loves you, for your heart is in tune with His will. You seek Him like a trusting child. “Your faith is an attainment which leads to perfection.” Your wisdom a gift of God. Through humble supplication your spirit quickly responds to His will. Vision lights your path and tenderness measures your judgment. Zeal and devotion to your appointed leadership finds you never wavering to the left or right, for to you the end of the way is eternal life.
Through your devotion and integrity you have inspired and comforted me. May health, peace and joy immeasurable be yours in this life and finally eternal life in God's kingdom.
—Laura B. Dimond.
Sister Martha Horne Tingey; In remembrance of the many faithful years of service at the wheel of the Y. L. M. 1. A. we salute you. But slight of figure, modest and quiet of manner, unassuming, you are chosen to represent the young womanhood of this Church—a fitting symbol of the characteristics we are to emulate.
—Agnes Smith Knowlton.
Our beloved President Martha H. Tingey—she stands a pillar of strength for Gospel truths; a dependable guide for the young women of the Church, firing their hearts with love of God and dean living. In earnest discussion she shows clear, conservative judgment and with firmness and love renders decisions for the best interests of the young women of Zion and the work of the Lord. Long live our President!
—Jane B. Anderson.
"A Tribute." Young Woman's Journal. May 1929. pg. 307.
A Tribute
In the honorable release of Sister Martha Horne Tingey. as General President of the Young Ladies9 Mutual Improvement Association, the youth of the Church will lose the close companionship of a devoted Latter-day Saint woman. After fifty years of public life she has earned the right to lay down the burden and enjoy the satisfaction that comes from duties successfully performed. Not only the Young Ladies, but the Young Men also, regret her retirement, for she has ministered to both.
Sister Tingey has sown love and goodness all her days and will surely reap as she has sown. Naturally modest and retiring, she is richly endowed with faith, and when principle is involved she is as firm as the everlasting hills. When her home has been invaded by illness and her loved ones have required almost constant care she has smiled and carried on. Her own physical afflictions have not deterred her in the performance of her Church duties, and she has often attended her meetings when really too ill to be present and when she should have remained at home.
During her Presidency delightful harmony has prevailed between the two General Boards of the Mutual Improvement Association. Her respect for the servants of the Lord has been an inspiration to her associates. We pray that the choice blessings of our Heavenly Father will rest upon our beloved associate and that her later life may be enriched by the peaceful and happy association of those she loves.
She has been surrounded by loyal, devoted women who will now assume the responsibility of Presidency, and the work will go forward without hindrance.
We congratulate the Church on having such faithful women as those who have been chosen to supervise and guide the activities of the daughters of Zion.
To the new Presidency we extend sincere and cordial greetings and anticipate the pleasure of harmonious cooperation in planning for the continued development of the children of our Lord.
GEORGE ALBERT SMITH, RICHARD R. LYMAN, MELVIN J. BALLARD,
General Superintendency of the Young
Men’s Mutual Improvement Association.
A Tribute
In the honorable release of Sister Martha Horne Tingey. as General President of the Young Ladies9 Mutual Improvement Association, the youth of the Church will lose the close companionship of a devoted Latter-day Saint woman. After fifty years of public life she has earned the right to lay down the burden and enjoy the satisfaction that comes from duties successfully performed. Not only the Young Ladies, but the Young Men also, regret her retirement, for she has ministered to both.
Sister Tingey has sown love and goodness all her days and will surely reap as she has sown. Naturally modest and retiring, she is richly endowed with faith, and when principle is involved she is as firm as the everlasting hills. When her home has been invaded by illness and her loved ones have required almost constant care she has smiled and carried on. Her own physical afflictions have not deterred her in the performance of her Church duties, and she has often attended her meetings when really too ill to be present and when she should have remained at home.
During her Presidency delightful harmony has prevailed between the two General Boards of the Mutual Improvement Association. Her respect for the servants of the Lord has been an inspiration to her associates. We pray that the choice blessings of our Heavenly Father will rest upon our beloved associate and that her later life may be enriched by the peaceful and happy association of those she loves.
She has been surrounded by loyal, devoted women who will now assume the responsibility of Presidency, and the work will go forward without hindrance.
We congratulate the Church on having such faithful women as those who have been chosen to supervise and guide the activities of the daughters of Zion.
To the new Presidency we extend sincere and cordial greetings and anticipate the pleasure of harmonious cooperation in planning for the continued development of the children of our Lord.
GEORGE ALBERT SMITH, RICHARD R. LYMAN, MELVIN J. BALLARD,
General Superintendency of the Young
Men’s Mutual Improvement Association.
Beesley, Clarissa A. "President Martha H. Tingey." Young Woman's Journal. May 1929. pg. 308-311.
President Martha H. Tingey
By Clarissa A. Beesley
IN THE year 1882, two young Elders were returning from the British Mission and as is the way with young missionaries, were discussing their dear ones at home and especially the girl friends from whom they had parted two years before. One of them was particularly interested in a certain young lady and his companion recalls how timidly and respectfully he spoke of her, mentioning the fact, however, that she was “rather small.” It was not long after their return that his companion learned that he had married this same petite young lady. The missionary was Elder Joseph S. Tingey and the young girl was Martha Horne.
But he found her a rather more important person than when be left, for she, too, had been called upon a mission—one that was to last, not two or three years but nearly a half century. And the years have borne witness to the inspiration of President Elmina S. Taylor, when, at the organization of the General Board of the Y. L. M. I. A. in 1880, she chose this girl of not quite twenty-three years old to act as one of her counselors.
Nearly a half century! Nearly fifty years she has served, first as counselor and then as the head of this great organization of the young women of Zion, filling the position with dignity and courage, radiating an atmosphere of spirituality, kindness, peace, and good will, until at her own request, on March 28, last, she was released by the Presidency of the Church.
She came to the position of counselor to President Taylor with the usual training received in ward auxiliary work and also with a splendid background of faith, knowledge of the Gospel, integrity of character and fine native intelligence, for she had been reared in a true Latter-day Saint home. Her parents, Joseph and Mary Isabella Horne were among the sturdy Utah Pioneer stock. They had been personal friends of the Prophet Joseph Smith and were among his devoted followers. The large family they gave to the Church have all made worthy records.
President Tingey’s early interests, aside from her direct Church work were along musical and literary lines. She belonged to local choirs and to the Tabernacle Choir for fourteen years; she has always been a lover of good books. The only club she ever belonged to was the Wasatch Literary club, in which President Heber J. Grant, Orson F. Whitney, Rulon S. Wells, and others who later attained prominence, were also members.
Preeminent in Sister Tingey’s life, however, has been her home interest. The romance of herself and husband continued throughout their thirty-nine years together enriching and beautifying their companionship. How proud he was of her! How always gentle and kind, steadfastly encouraging and assisting her to fulfill her home and public duties. We who have been connected with the Young IC Oman’s Journal knew Brother Tingey as a real friend, for through many years he had charge of the printing of our magazine at the Deseret News. Many were the pleasant conversations we had with him and many were the words of kindly advice he gave us. In his death in 1923, a man of true worth and integrity passed away. Seven children have blessed their home, Joseph Jr., William, Clarence, Clara, Rulon and two others who died in infancy. All four of the sons have filled honorable missions in foreign lands; Elder Clarence Tingey, now in his second term of service, is presiding over the New Zealand Mission. The daughter is active in local auxiliary and genealogical work. All of them reflect the splendid character of their father and mother.
The M. I. A. has grown extensively during these five decades in which President Tingey has been our leader. From a membership of less than four thousand, its members have increased to more than fifty thousand. From a general miscellaneous program have been evolved the graded courses of study, one department after another being added, one activity after another, until the present splendid program for girls and young women has been established. Of these the Bee-Hive and Summer Camp movements are outstanding, although not less important is the rapid progress made in Adult education and in the training in leadership given to Gleaner and Junior girls. The Journal, commenced in 1889, has continued its mission of promoting faith and culture among the girls of the Church. On the General Board energetic members and committees have pushed forward the cause, giving of their best for its advancement. But standing at their head, ever leading them has been their President.
What has been the secret of her success as a leader? She has been extremely modest in voice and manner, never aggressive, shrinking from publicity, yet she has inspired those around her to want to do their best, and harmony and good feeling have been preserved to a marked degree. Whence has come her great influence?
First, through her faith. Bright like a star it has gleamed through all the years. Whatever the stress, whatever the discouragements or problems, she has never faltered in her steadfast trust in a real living, loving Father who would guide aright. And her faith is manifest in her own daily acts. To President Tingey the Gospel of Jesus Christ has been the supreme standard and faithfully has she lived up to that standard.
Through her power of discernment and her wisdom. These gifts have been hers to a marked degree. Again and again have they been witnessed by members of her Board. Often when prevented by ill health from participating in preliminary discussions concerning important matters, she has nevertheless, upon their presentation to her at once comprehended their full import and given her opinion without hesitation. Sometimes it has not been in agreement with the general sentiment but the wisdom of her decision has later been justified.
Through her unselfishness. President Tingey has displayed through this trait one of the highest types of character. She has ever been anxious to give her companions opportunity to advance; she has accorded to each committee every honor for accomplishing a piece of work, keeping herself ever in the background. She has always been willing to accommodate her time and personal convenience to that of others, being never too tired to listen patiently to the suggestions and wishes of her fellow workers. One may rise to heights of unselfishness for periods of time but to do this consistently for a life time is an unusual achievement in character building.
Through her trustfulness. Some one has said that a real leader trusts his fellows to perform the tasks assigned them. This, President Tingey has done. The members of her Board have never been checked on; they have always felt that she had confidence in them and they have loyally endeavored to measure up to that trust.
These noble characteristics and many others have given her power and influence as the head of this great organization and have endeared her to her associates.
As is perhaps well known the Y. L. M. I. A. has been a member society of the National Council of Women since the inception of the Council in 1888. This connection has naturally brought us into personal contact with some of the outstanding women of our nation. Sister Tingey has on seven or eight occasions attended Council sessions and has made many friends. At the last Biennial meeting held in 1927, the writer had the great privilege of accompanying her to New York City and it was a pleasure to note the kind consideration shown her. Dr. Valeria Parker, the President, appointed Mrs. Tingey to serve on the principal committee of the session—that on Council Reorganization. She was also one of a limited number of Presidents invited to speak on the evening known as “Presidents’ Night.” Her simple, brief speech was listened to most attentively and when she modestly said, “I am a product of the Mutual Improvement Association,” a sympathetic smile went through the audience. Somehow, looking at her, one felt that the M. I. A. stands for all that is fine and noble.
And that is what has impressed people. That is why our officers everywhere have loved to have her visit them. It isn’t so much what President Tingey says as what she is. Her travels in the stakes of Zion have been extensive, particularly in earlier years and always she has carried with her a sweet, inspiring influence and been abundantly blessed of the Lord.
The following sentiments culled from President Tingey’s talks given in officer’s meetings and conferences reveal in part her abiding faith in God’s work and some of her desires for the M. I. A. girls:
“You * * * must feel within your hearts that Zion is growing; that the work of God is progressing in safe hands. This is my message to you, have faith to stay with it. We know that this is God’s work—we know that He stands at the head of this Church.”
“Above all things we must have love in our hearts for our girls. Do not let us he too hard upon them; do not let us scold them or reprove them, but let us help them in love and kindness.”
“With all our hearts we wish our young people to understand that the Mutual Improvement officers do not wish to coerce them. We do not wish to keep them from anything that would bring them joy; but we do wish to save them from that which would bring everlasting sorrow into their lives.”
“Daughters of Zion, hold yourselves high. Maintain your dignity and self-respect.”
“Give heed to the President of the Church. We are safe when we follow his words. He will never lead the Church astray.”
“Young girls should be taught modesty. You as officers may not need this instruction, but will you help us in helping our young people. You have accepted positions in the Church which entail upon you a responsibility to carry on this work.”
“You are placed as shepherds over our young girls and it is your duty to see that our young girls get the spirit of the Gospel for that is the only thing that will keep them straight and lead them right. * * *
President Martha H. Tingey
By Clarissa A. Beesley
IN THE year 1882, two young Elders were returning from the British Mission and as is the way with young missionaries, were discussing their dear ones at home and especially the girl friends from whom they had parted two years before. One of them was particularly interested in a certain young lady and his companion recalls how timidly and respectfully he spoke of her, mentioning the fact, however, that she was “rather small.” It was not long after their return that his companion learned that he had married this same petite young lady. The missionary was Elder Joseph S. Tingey and the young girl was Martha Horne.
But he found her a rather more important person than when be left, for she, too, had been called upon a mission—one that was to last, not two or three years but nearly a half century. And the years have borne witness to the inspiration of President Elmina S. Taylor, when, at the organization of the General Board of the Y. L. M. I. A. in 1880, she chose this girl of not quite twenty-three years old to act as one of her counselors.
Nearly a half century! Nearly fifty years she has served, first as counselor and then as the head of this great organization of the young women of Zion, filling the position with dignity and courage, radiating an atmosphere of spirituality, kindness, peace, and good will, until at her own request, on March 28, last, she was released by the Presidency of the Church.
She came to the position of counselor to President Taylor with the usual training received in ward auxiliary work and also with a splendid background of faith, knowledge of the Gospel, integrity of character and fine native intelligence, for she had been reared in a true Latter-day Saint home. Her parents, Joseph and Mary Isabella Horne were among the sturdy Utah Pioneer stock. They had been personal friends of the Prophet Joseph Smith and were among his devoted followers. The large family they gave to the Church have all made worthy records.
President Tingey’s early interests, aside from her direct Church work were along musical and literary lines. She belonged to local choirs and to the Tabernacle Choir for fourteen years; she has always been a lover of good books. The only club she ever belonged to was the Wasatch Literary club, in which President Heber J. Grant, Orson F. Whitney, Rulon S. Wells, and others who later attained prominence, were also members.
Preeminent in Sister Tingey’s life, however, has been her home interest. The romance of herself and husband continued throughout their thirty-nine years together enriching and beautifying their companionship. How proud he was of her! How always gentle and kind, steadfastly encouraging and assisting her to fulfill her home and public duties. We who have been connected with the Young IC Oman’s Journal knew Brother Tingey as a real friend, for through many years he had charge of the printing of our magazine at the Deseret News. Many were the pleasant conversations we had with him and many were the words of kindly advice he gave us. In his death in 1923, a man of true worth and integrity passed away. Seven children have blessed their home, Joseph Jr., William, Clarence, Clara, Rulon and two others who died in infancy. All four of the sons have filled honorable missions in foreign lands; Elder Clarence Tingey, now in his second term of service, is presiding over the New Zealand Mission. The daughter is active in local auxiliary and genealogical work. All of them reflect the splendid character of their father and mother.
The M. I. A. has grown extensively during these five decades in which President Tingey has been our leader. From a membership of less than four thousand, its members have increased to more than fifty thousand. From a general miscellaneous program have been evolved the graded courses of study, one department after another being added, one activity after another, until the present splendid program for girls and young women has been established. Of these the Bee-Hive and Summer Camp movements are outstanding, although not less important is the rapid progress made in Adult education and in the training in leadership given to Gleaner and Junior girls. The Journal, commenced in 1889, has continued its mission of promoting faith and culture among the girls of the Church. On the General Board energetic members and committees have pushed forward the cause, giving of their best for its advancement. But standing at their head, ever leading them has been their President.
What has been the secret of her success as a leader? She has been extremely modest in voice and manner, never aggressive, shrinking from publicity, yet she has inspired those around her to want to do their best, and harmony and good feeling have been preserved to a marked degree. Whence has come her great influence?
First, through her faith. Bright like a star it has gleamed through all the years. Whatever the stress, whatever the discouragements or problems, she has never faltered in her steadfast trust in a real living, loving Father who would guide aright. And her faith is manifest in her own daily acts. To President Tingey the Gospel of Jesus Christ has been the supreme standard and faithfully has she lived up to that standard.
Through her power of discernment and her wisdom. These gifts have been hers to a marked degree. Again and again have they been witnessed by members of her Board. Often when prevented by ill health from participating in preliminary discussions concerning important matters, she has nevertheless, upon their presentation to her at once comprehended their full import and given her opinion without hesitation. Sometimes it has not been in agreement with the general sentiment but the wisdom of her decision has later been justified.
Through her unselfishness. President Tingey has displayed through this trait one of the highest types of character. She has ever been anxious to give her companions opportunity to advance; she has accorded to each committee every honor for accomplishing a piece of work, keeping herself ever in the background. She has always been willing to accommodate her time and personal convenience to that of others, being never too tired to listen patiently to the suggestions and wishes of her fellow workers. One may rise to heights of unselfishness for periods of time but to do this consistently for a life time is an unusual achievement in character building.
Through her trustfulness. Some one has said that a real leader trusts his fellows to perform the tasks assigned them. This, President Tingey has done. The members of her Board have never been checked on; they have always felt that she had confidence in them and they have loyally endeavored to measure up to that trust.
These noble characteristics and many others have given her power and influence as the head of this great organization and have endeared her to her associates.
As is perhaps well known the Y. L. M. I. A. has been a member society of the National Council of Women since the inception of the Council in 1888. This connection has naturally brought us into personal contact with some of the outstanding women of our nation. Sister Tingey has on seven or eight occasions attended Council sessions and has made many friends. At the last Biennial meeting held in 1927, the writer had the great privilege of accompanying her to New York City and it was a pleasure to note the kind consideration shown her. Dr. Valeria Parker, the President, appointed Mrs. Tingey to serve on the principal committee of the session—that on Council Reorganization. She was also one of a limited number of Presidents invited to speak on the evening known as “Presidents’ Night.” Her simple, brief speech was listened to most attentively and when she modestly said, “I am a product of the Mutual Improvement Association,” a sympathetic smile went through the audience. Somehow, looking at her, one felt that the M. I. A. stands for all that is fine and noble.
And that is what has impressed people. That is why our officers everywhere have loved to have her visit them. It isn’t so much what President Tingey says as what she is. Her travels in the stakes of Zion have been extensive, particularly in earlier years and always she has carried with her a sweet, inspiring influence and been abundantly blessed of the Lord.
The following sentiments culled from President Tingey’s talks given in officer’s meetings and conferences reveal in part her abiding faith in God’s work and some of her desires for the M. I. A. girls:
“You * * * must feel within your hearts that Zion is growing; that the work of God is progressing in safe hands. This is my message to you, have faith to stay with it. We know that this is God’s work—we know that He stands at the head of this Church.”
“Above all things we must have love in our hearts for our girls. Do not let us he too hard upon them; do not let us scold them or reprove them, but let us help them in love and kindness.”
“With all our hearts we wish our young people to understand that the Mutual Improvement officers do not wish to coerce them. We do not wish to keep them from anything that would bring them joy; but we do wish to save them from that which would bring everlasting sorrow into their lives.”
“Daughters of Zion, hold yourselves high. Maintain your dignity and self-respect.”
“Give heed to the President of the Church. We are safe when we follow his words. He will never lead the Church astray.”
“Young girls should be taught modesty. You as officers may not need this instruction, but will you help us in helping our young people. You have accepted positions in the Church which entail upon you a responsibility to carry on this work.”
“You are placed as shepherds over our young girls and it is your duty to see that our young girls get the spirit of the Gospel for that is the only thing that will keep them straight and lead them right. * * *
"Martha H. Tingey." Relief Society Magazine. April 1938. pg. 277.
Martha Horne Tingey
AS we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith."—Gal. 6:10
Forty-nine years in the general presidency of the Y. W. M. I. A. provided Sister Martha Home Tingey abundant opportunity to do good, especially to the girls and women of the Church. That these opportunities were utilized to the fullest, thousands can bear testimony. Called to act as counselor to Sister Elmina S. Taylor, the first general president of Y. W. M. I. A., when but twenty-three years of age, Sister Tingey served with love and efficiency until ill health made it necessary for her to retire as President in 1929. During her presidency the Y. W. M. I. A. grew in membership and increased in interest and activity. Traveling throughout the stakes she has made many friends who hold her in fond remembrance. Her passing March 11, 1938, leaves a Latter-day Saint sisterhood grateful for a life faithfully and effectively lived.
Martha Horne Tingey
AS we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith."—Gal. 6:10
Forty-nine years in the general presidency of the Y. W. M. I. A. provided Sister Martha Home Tingey abundant opportunity to do good, especially to the girls and women of the Church. That these opportunities were utilized to the fullest, thousands can bear testimony. Called to act as counselor to Sister Elmina S. Taylor, the first general president of Y. W. M. I. A., when but twenty-three years of age, Sister Tingey served with love and efficiency until ill health made it necessary for her to retire as President in 1929. During her presidency the Y. W. M. I. A. grew in membership and increased in interest and activity. Traveling throughout the stakes she has made many friends who hold her in fond remembrance. Her passing March 11, 1938, leaves a Latter-day Saint sisterhood grateful for a life faithfully and effectively lived.
Beesley, Clarissa A. "Martha Horne Tingey." Improvement Era. May 1938. pg. 304, 308.
MARTHA HORNE TINGEY
By CLARISSA A. BEESLEY
HOW swiftly the panorama of life passes by! How rapidly events—trivial or important —follow and merge into one another to make up a life's history!
On a bright June day fifty-eight years ago a young girl looked into the future, wondering how far the years would stretch ahead and what they would bring her of varied experience, but concerned even more as to what they would bring to the girls of Zion with whose destinies she was to be so vitally connected.
For on this day, June 19, 1880, had been organized the General Board of the Young Ladies' Mutual Improvement Association and she —Martha Horne—not quite twenty- three years old, had been chosen as second counselor to President Elmina S. Taylor. It was an important mission to which she had been called and to one as modest and retiring as was this girl its acceptance must have cost a struggle. But she had unbounded faith, her love of the Gospel was deep, and she believed with Nephi of old that the Lord never calls men and women to a task without helping them to perform it. So she began her service, little dreaming that it would continue for well nigh half a century.
For one so young she was well prepared. Her parents, Joseph and Mary Isabella Home, had been personal friends of the Prophet Joseph Smith and had heard gems of truth from his lips which became familiar household words, thus enriching the lives of their children. She was possessed of a fine, intelligent mind. Her ideals were high. She had had some business training too, having been selected by President Brigham Young, with several other girls to learn typesetting by which she was able to earn a livelihood. Her reading was quite extensive for those days. She loved music and had been a member of both the Tabernacle and ward choirs. And she belonged to the Wasatch Literary Club in which Heber J. Grant, Orson F. Whitney, Rulon S. Wells, and others who later attained prominence were also members.
Soon after her appointment in the M, I. A. she was married to Joseph S. Tingey, a young man who, like herself, had been born of "goodly parents" and whose character was of pure gold. They had been waiting for each other while he completed a mission to England and their romance, thus tested, continued throughout the thirty-nine years of their life together. Many hardships came; much of the time her health was frail but her spirit was ever brave and sweet and she made a beautiful home for him and her children. He was always gentle and patient; had it not been for his encouragement and consideration. Sister Tingey could not have continued her public duties.
For twenty-five years, she served as President Taylor's counselor and in 1905, upon the latter's death, became the president of the Y. L. M. I. A., holding this position until March 28, 1929, when at her own request because of failing health, she was released. Nine more years she lived, peaceful and contented, surrounded by her loved ones, a devoted daughter and four sons with their families, until, on March 11th of this year, 1938, when she peacefully passed beyond. Her eightieth birthday had occurred on the 15th of October last.
As WE looked at our beloved former president resting in her last sleep we could not but wish that all of our Mutual girls of today might realize how much was accomplished for them during the five decades of her leadership. From a membership of less than four thousand the Y. L. M. I. A. grew to more than fifty thousand. From a general miscellaneous program, graded courses of study were evolved, one department and one activity after another being added until a splendid program for girls and young women had been established. Of these the Bee-Hive and Summer Camp movements were outstanding, although not less important was the rapid progress made in Adult education and in the development of the Gleaner and Junior activities. President Tingey was cautious in introducing new ventures, giving each one much careful and prayerful thought, but when launched they were always successful. The Young Woman's Journal, commenced in 1889, continued its mission until the very year in which she was released when it was combined with The Improvement Era.
As we looked upon her gentle, serene face, we wished too that our girls of today could have known her as we who had worked with her knew her. We wished they could have felt the strength of her faith. Bright like a star it gleamed through all the years. Whatever the stress, whatever the discouragement or problem, she never faltered in her steadfast trust in a real, living Father. To her the Gospel was all in all.
We wished they could have been touched by the influence of her unselfishness. She was ever anxious to give her companions opportunity to advance; she gave honor to each individual or committee who accomplished a piece of work, keeping herself in the background; she was willing to accommodate herself to the convenience of others; and these things she did not once or several times only but during all her years of service.
We wish our officers could be blessed with her great powers of wisdom and discernment. Again and again were they witnessed by members of her Board. Often when prevented by ill health from participating in preliminary discussions concerning important matters she nevertheless, when they were presented to her, at once comprehended their full import and gave her opinion without hesitation. And we knew that when Sister Tingey said a thing was right it was right, and if she found weaknesses in it, we willingly laid it aside.
She might have been said to be a little old-fashioned, but it was a lovely "old-fashionedness." There was a sweet way about her that was charming. Once at a big meeting of the National Council of Women in New York City she was among a limited number of presidents invited to speak on the evening known as "Presidents' Night." Her simple brief speech was listened to most attentively and when she modestly said, "I am a product of the Mutual Improvement Association" a sympathetic smile went through the audience. Somehow, looking at her, the women there felt the fineness of her nature and honored the M. I. A. because of her.
On several occasions the changing of the name of our organization from Young Ladies to Young Women had been considered, but although Sister Tingey could see the justification for it, it hurt her to make the change, and she said, "Wait until I leave before you do it."
The officers and girls of today cannot hear her voice, but they can feel something of the love she had for them in these words quoted from her addresses:
Daughters of Zion, hold yourselves high. Maintain your dignity and self-respect.
Give heed to the President of the Church. We are safe when we follow his words. He will never lead the Church astray.
* * * * *
Above all things we must have love in our hearts for our girls. Do not let us be too hard upon them; do not let us scold them or reprove them, but let us help them in love and kindness.
* * * * *
With all our hearts we wish our young people to understand that the Mutual Improvement officers do not wish to coerce them. We do not wish to keep them from anything that would bring them joy; but we do wish to save them from that which would bring everlasting sorrow into their lives.
Farewell, Sister Tingey, our well-loved leader!
MARTHA HORNE TINGEY
By CLARISSA A. BEESLEY
HOW swiftly the panorama of life passes by! How rapidly events—trivial or important —follow and merge into one another to make up a life's history!
On a bright June day fifty-eight years ago a young girl looked into the future, wondering how far the years would stretch ahead and what they would bring her of varied experience, but concerned even more as to what they would bring to the girls of Zion with whose destinies she was to be so vitally connected.
For on this day, June 19, 1880, had been organized the General Board of the Young Ladies' Mutual Improvement Association and she —Martha Horne—not quite twenty- three years old, had been chosen as second counselor to President Elmina S. Taylor. It was an important mission to which she had been called and to one as modest and retiring as was this girl its acceptance must have cost a struggle. But she had unbounded faith, her love of the Gospel was deep, and she believed with Nephi of old that the Lord never calls men and women to a task without helping them to perform it. So she began her service, little dreaming that it would continue for well nigh half a century.
For one so young she was well prepared. Her parents, Joseph and Mary Isabella Home, had been personal friends of the Prophet Joseph Smith and had heard gems of truth from his lips which became familiar household words, thus enriching the lives of their children. She was possessed of a fine, intelligent mind. Her ideals were high. She had had some business training too, having been selected by President Brigham Young, with several other girls to learn typesetting by which she was able to earn a livelihood. Her reading was quite extensive for those days. She loved music and had been a member of both the Tabernacle and ward choirs. And she belonged to the Wasatch Literary Club in which Heber J. Grant, Orson F. Whitney, Rulon S. Wells, and others who later attained prominence were also members.
Soon after her appointment in the M, I. A. she was married to Joseph S. Tingey, a young man who, like herself, had been born of "goodly parents" and whose character was of pure gold. They had been waiting for each other while he completed a mission to England and their romance, thus tested, continued throughout the thirty-nine years of their life together. Many hardships came; much of the time her health was frail but her spirit was ever brave and sweet and she made a beautiful home for him and her children. He was always gentle and patient; had it not been for his encouragement and consideration. Sister Tingey could not have continued her public duties.
For twenty-five years, she served as President Taylor's counselor and in 1905, upon the latter's death, became the president of the Y. L. M. I. A., holding this position until March 28, 1929, when at her own request because of failing health, she was released. Nine more years she lived, peaceful and contented, surrounded by her loved ones, a devoted daughter and four sons with their families, until, on March 11th of this year, 1938, when she peacefully passed beyond. Her eightieth birthday had occurred on the 15th of October last.
As WE looked at our beloved former president resting in her last sleep we could not but wish that all of our Mutual girls of today might realize how much was accomplished for them during the five decades of her leadership. From a membership of less than four thousand the Y. L. M. I. A. grew to more than fifty thousand. From a general miscellaneous program, graded courses of study were evolved, one department and one activity after another being added until a splendid program for girls and young women had been established. Of these the Bee-Hive and Summer Camp movements were outstanding, although not less important was the rapid progress made in Adult education and in the development of the Gleaner and Junior activities. President Tingey was cautious in introducing new ventures, giving each one much careful and prayerful thought, but when launched they were always successful. The Young Woman's Journal, commenced in 1889, continued its mission until the very year in which she was released when it was combined with The Improvement Era.
As we looked upon her gentle, serene face, we wished too that our girls of today could have known her as we who had worked with her knew her. We wished they could have felt the strength of her faith. Bright like a star it gleamed through all the years. Whatever the stress, whatever the discouragement or problem, she never faltered in her steadfast trust in a real, living Father. To her the Gospel was all in all.
We wished they could have been touched by the influence of her unselfishness. She was ever anxious to give her companions opportunity to advance; she gave honor to each individual or committee who accomplished a piece of work, keeping herself in the background; she was willing to accommodate herself to the convenience of others; and these things she did not once or several times only but during all her years of service.
We wish our officers could be blessed with her great powers of wisdom and discernment. Again and again were they witnessed by members of her Board. Often when prevented by ill health from participating in preliminary discussions concerning important matters she nevertheless, when they were presented to her, at once comprehended their full import and gave her opinion without hesitation. And we knew that when Sister Tingey said a thing was right it was right, and if she found weaknesses in it, we willingly laid it aside.
She might have been said to be a little old-fashioned, but it was a lovely "old-fashionedness." There was a sweet way about her that was charming. Once at a big meeting of the National Council of Women in New York City she was among a limited number of presidents invited to speak on the evening known as "Presidents' Night." Her simple brief speech was listened to most attentively and when she modestly said, "I am a product of the Mutual Improvement Association" a sympathetic smile went through the audience. Somehow, looking at her, the women there felt the fineness of her nature and honored the M. I. A. because of her.
On several occasions the changing of the name of our organization from Young Ladies to Young Women had been considered, but although Sister Tingey could see the justification for it, it hurt her to make the change, and she said, "Wait until I leave before you do it."
The officers and girls of today cannot hear her voice, but they can feel something of the love she had for them in these words quoted from her addresses:
Daughters of Zion, hold yourselves high. Maintain your dignity and self-respect.
Give heed to the President of the Church. We are safe when we follow his words. He will never lead the Church astray.
* * * * *
Above all things we must have love in our hearts for our girls. Do not let us be too hard upon them; do not let us scold them or reprove them, but let us help them in love and kindness.
* * * * *
With all our hearts we wish our young people to understand that the Mutual Improvement officers do not wish to coerce them. We do not wish to keep them from anything that would bring them joy; but we do wish to save them from that which would bring everlasting sorrow into their lives.
Farewell, Sister Tingey, our well-loved leader!
Romney, Thomas C. "Representative Women of the Church - Martha Horne Tingey." Instructor. July 1950. pg. 198-199.
Representative Women of the Church MARTHA HORNE TINGEY Thomas C. Romney THAT the life mission of Martha H. Tingey was, in a measure at least, outlined for her before she came to mortality and that she was among the great spirits seen by Abraham in vision seems most certain. Would Do a Great Work When but a slip of a girl she was informed by a patriarch to whom she went for a blessing that, if faithful, she would do a great work among the young people of the Church. However, she was told that the evil one would seek to hedge up the way to prevent a fulfillment of the mission assigned her, that the devil would even attempt to take her life, but that his nefarious designs would come to naught if Martha would put her trust in the Lord and keep his commandments fully. Thirty years later a blessing from the Presiding Patriarch of the Church confirmed in every important detail the blessing given by the local patriarch, much to the strengthening of the faith and courage of Martha. She lived to see a fulfillment of these predictions, for she became one of the leading women in the Church in assisting to shape the high destinies of many thousands of the daughters of Zion over whom she presided for a period of twenty-four years. This she achieved in the face of great physical handicaps that would have disheartened a woman of less faith, patience, and sublime courage. Always she was frail of body; and, at the time of the birth of her first child, she was informed by her doctor that she would never be able to walk again, even if she survived her illness. But her faith and the power of the Lord manifest through the priesthood raised her from her bed of affliction and she lived to become the mother of six more children. Sister Tingey came from a noble ancestry and was of pure English extraction on both the paternal and maternal lines. From her antecedents she inherited those noble traits of character so often found among the yeoman class in English history. The parents of Martha, Joseph Home and Mary Isabella Hales, emigrated to Canada from the mother country while youthful; and there they met for the first time. Since they had so many ideals in common, a bond of friendship was formed between them that ripened into love, eventuating in a happy marriage. Parents Converted in Canada One month following their marriage they heard for the first time a gospel sermon preached by a Mormon elder. They were favorably impressed with it and in July, 1836, they were baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They gathered with the Saints in Missouri and experienced the trials and persecutions heaped upon them by their enemies. From there they went to Nauvoo and assisted in its growth and development. When the people were driven from their beautiful city and forced into the wilderness by an inhuman mob; the young couple was with the vanguard to cross the Mississippi River. Their journey westward was beset with trials common to the rank and file of those who made the trek across the plains in those early days. They entered the valley of the Great Salt Lake in the John Taylor Company, soon after the entrance of Brigham Young and his pioneer company in July, 1847. It was about ten years after the arrival of the Homes into the Valley that Martha Jane Home was born, her birth date being October 15, 1857. Her birthplace was Salt Lake City, which was to be her home during her lifetime. Fortunate was she to be born into the Home family, known for its great hospitality and fondness for social gatherings, family reunions, and such other functions as tend to develop the playful spirit in people, so woefully lacking in many homes. And no less fortunate was she to belong to a household in which there were thirteen other children with whom she must share the love of parents and assume her portion of the responsibilities incident to the rearing of a large family. Of even greater importance was the sweet spiritual influence under which she was brought to womanhood and the fine example of Christian living set by her God-fearing parents. Church Positions from an Early Age Reared in such an atmosphere, she was ready early in life to be selected to fill important positions in the Church. In her teens she was a Sunday School teacher, as well as a counselor in the presidency of the Primary Association. She also took an early interest in the Y.L.M.I.A., and her enthusiasm and ability were rewarded by her installation as counselor to the president of that organization in the Fourteenth Ward of Salt Lake City. At the age of twenty-two she was appointed to serve as a counselor to Elmina S. Taylor in the general presidency of the Young Ladies Mutual Improvement Association. She held this position for twenty-five years, and upon the death of Sister Taylor she became president of the organization and continued in that capacity for twenty-four years. General President of Y. L. M. I. A. A promise made by her mother and repeated by President Joseph F. Smith at the time she was set apart as president of the Y.L.M.LA., in April, 1905, that she would be equal to the requirements made of her, gave a comfort and strength that enabled her to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Despite the delicate physical condition of Sister Tingey over a period of years, she refused to permit ill health to interfere with her responsibilities as the head of one of the greatest women's organizations in the world. The spirit of the woman was expressed in the following excerpt taken from an address made by her at a conference: My heart is with the Mutual Improvement work. I love the youth of Zion, and as I am anxious that every child of my own shall become a pure, noble and honorable member of the Church of God, worthy to bear the Holy Priesthood, so am I anxious that every son and daughter of God shall be reared in the same way, that they may become a mighty army for righteousness in the kingdom of God. When the Y.L.M.LA. became affiliated with the National Council of Women, Sister Tingey made several trips throughout the country to attend conventions as a representative of the Mutual Improvement Association. She was present at such conventions in Washington, D. C; Seattle; Chicago; New York; and California. Always she made a favorable impression among the delegates because of her affable manner and sincerity of purpose. She was one of the speakers at the Congress of Women held in Chicago at the World's Fair in 1893. The subject of her address was "Woman's Place Beside Man." Her clear ringing voice, without affectation, her gentle but firm demeanor, coupled with the wisdom and earnestness of her public address, quickly won the confidence and admiration of her audience and called forth words of praise for herself and the women of Utah generally. Eminently fitted was Martha Home Tingey for the high position to which she was called, most of all because of her keen sense of values. She felt that the development of spirituality was the dominant purpose of Mutual Improvement work, and that recreation and all other forms of activity were subsidiary to that one great purpose. A testimony of the gospel, she felt, was the important thing in life. At the age of eighteen years, she was called by President Brigham Young to learn typesetting at the Deseret News. Here she met Joseph S. Tingey. Fortunate it was for her and the work of the Lord to which she had been called, that Joseph S. Tingey. whom she accepted for a companion, was God-fearing, as well as thoughtful and considerate of his wife. The duties and responsibilities of her Church position frequently called Sister Tingey from home; but, during the many years of married life, her husband never complained, knowing that she was in the line of duty. Always he gave her encouragement in every way possible, by both word and deed; and much of the success she achieved, both in public and in the affairs of home. she attributed to the close co-operation of her husband. For years Brother Tingey was bishop of Farmer's Ward in Salt Lake City and foreman of the Job Department of the Deseret News; but, while attending to these obligations with meticulous care, he did not neglect his duties about the home. Sister Tingey had a high regard for marriage and the sacred obligations associated therewith, as the following expressions from her will indicate: If a couple commence their married life with at least a partial comprehension of its sacredness, of its grave responsibilities, its glorious possibilities, width full faith and confidence in each other and an abiding trust in their Heavenly Father, blessed indeed are they. The strongest and most important foundation stones in home building are the spiritual and moral influences which pervade the atmosphere and perfect unity and harmony in the governing powers . . . Can you think of any better, broader field of action than that of wife and mother, the housekeeper and homemaker? or any labor that will reap such a glorious harvest as to clothe immortal spirits in earthly tabernacles, nurture and educate them till they also are able to take up the labors of life, and work intelligently for their own exaltation and the redemption of their fellow men? . . . Well can the young women of Zion emulate the example set by this worthy woman if they would fulfill their missions in earth life as the Lord would have them do, and if they would be supremely happy. |
MARTHA H. TINGEY
MARTHA HORNE TINGEY WITH HER HUSBAND, JOSEPH S. TINGEY
And their children, left to right, Joseph S., Jr., William H., Clara H. (Woodbury), Clarence H., and Rulon H. (February, 1917). |