James Sloan (Latter Day Saints) facts for kids

James Sloan was born in Ireland in 1792. He lived until 1886. He was an important person in the early days of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He worked as a historian and a secretary for Joseph Smith, who was the church's leader. He also helped start the city of Nauvoo, Illinois.

Early Life and Church Membership

James Sloan was born in County Tyrone, Ireland. In the mid-1830s, he joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He then moved from Ireland to the United States.

In February 1838, he became a high priest. This was a special leadership role in the church. He was given this role by Joseph Smith, Sr..

Helping Build Nauvoo

In 1840, James Sloan was one of the first members of the church to settle in Hancock County, Illinois. This area later became the city of Nauvoo.

Sloan played a big part in setting up the new city. On February 1, 1840, he became Nauvoo's first city recorder. This meant he kept all the official city records. He was also the first clerk for the Nauvoo Court. In September 1842, he was chosen to be Nauvoo's first notary public. A notary public helps make sure important documents are signed correctly.

Church Historian and Scribe

From 1841 to 1842, James Sloan worked as an official historian for the church. He helped record important events and facts. He also served as a scribe from 1840 to 1843. A scribe writes down what others say. He worked for Joseph Smith and Hyrum Smith.

Some of his writings were included in the church's early history book. This book is called History of the Church.

Missionary Work

In May 1843, James Sloan traveled back to Ireland. He went there as a church missionary. Missionaries teach people about their faith. While in Ireland, he was chosen to lead the church's group there. He also led another group in Bradford, England.

Later Life

After his mission, James Sloan returned to America. He settled in Pottawattamie County, Iowa. In Iowa, he continued to serve the community. He was the first county clerk for Pottawattamie County. In 1851, he was elected as a District Judge for the county.

Later, he moved to Utah Territory as a Mormon pioneer. He joined many other members of the church who were settling there. In his later years, James Sloan joined the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He then moved to California. He passed away in Sacramento in 1886, just before his 94th birthday.