Left Painting by Del Parsons
I love Hyrum Smith, I served my mission in Vermont and walked the hills were he was raised. We often extol Joseph Smith, Brigham Young and other early Prophets for their works and mission. But Hyrum is arguably the 2nd most important man of the restoration. Hyrum’s legacy may not be well known, but Joseph counseled us to learn it and follow it. For it is a legacy of selfless service to God. Hyrum’s life is the perfect example of devoted discipleship.
“Hyrum, thy name shall be written in the Book of the Law of the Lord, for those who come after thee to look upon, that they may pattern after thy works.” – Joseph Smith (August 11, 1842)
Understanding an extremely brief bio will help will help in explaining all the Hyrum did for the restoration.
Hyrum was born in Tunbridge Vermont on February 9th, 1800. He was the second oldest, after Alvin. In 1826 at the age of 26, Hyrum married Jerusha Barden, who passed away 11 years later, in 1837. Later that same year Hyrum married Mary Fielding Smith, the mother of the future Prophet Joseph F Smith. Hyrum held many roles including Elder, Witness, Patriarch, Brevet Major General in the Nauvoo Legion and Assistant Prophet. On June 27th, 1844 he assumed the title of ma mob assassinated Hyrum and Joseph at Carthage. (Source)
With that basic understanding, here are 5 things you did not know about Hyrum Smith, the Patriarch.
1. Hyrum was one of the first converts to the church.
Hyrum believed Joseph from the first time he told his family about the First vision. Less than a month after the Aaronic Priesthood was restored, by John the Baptist on May 15th, 1829, Hyrum was baptized. Hyrum was one of the first Baptism performed in this dispensation. For some reference. Hyrum was baptized a month before the translation of the Book of Mormon finished on July 1st, 1829. Joseph Smith Sr was not baptized until April 1830 almost 10 months after Hyrum. Hyrum was also one of the 6 men who signed the church charter on April 6th, 1830. Of Hyrum’s faith in the Lord, Elder Ballard has taught.
“Hyrum had a believing heart; he did not have to see everything Joseph saw. For him, hearing the truth from Joseph’s lips and feeling the spiritual promptings whispering that it was true were enough.” – M. Russell Ballard (Hyrum Smith:“Firm As the Pillars of Heaven” Oct 1995)
2nd. Hyrum was always eager to build up the Kingdom.
Hyrum was always eager to share the gospel. He asked Joseph for the Lord’s guidance on the matter, and the Lord’s reply is recorded as D&C 11. Where Hyrum is told to wait till the Book of Mormon’s translation was finished (D&C 11:21-22). The moment the Book of Mormon’s translation was finished Hyrum diligently shared the gospel. He taught and baptized many of the church’s first converts. His efforts led to the creation of the Colesville Branch. In 1831 he moved to Kirtland and from 1831-1833 he served three church missions. Parley P. Pratt joined the church because of Hyrum’s Missionary efforts. Parley P. Pratt then served a mission, converting John Taylor and Mary Fielding, Hyrum’s future wife.
When Joseph announced that the Lord wanted the Saints to build a temple in Kirtland Hyrum went out to the plot and started clearing the weeds that day. Two days later Hyrum and Reynolds Cahoon started digging the foundation. Hyrum was always eager to obey and serve in the kingdom. All told Hyrum held various callings and served 6 church missions.
“No mortal man who ever lived in this Church desired more to do good than did Hyrum Smith.” – Heber J. Grant (In Conference Report, Oct. 1920, p. 84.)
Read 3-5 here.
Aleah is a graduate of Southern Virginia University, where she studied English, Creative Writing, and Dance. She now works full time as a marketing and product manager, writer, and editor. She currently hosts the podcast “Single to the Glory” about singlehood in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Aleah served a mission in California and loves baking, Lang Leav poetry, Gaynor Minden pointe shoes, and Bollywood movies.
