Jens Nielson facts for kids

Jens Nielson (born 1821, died 1906) was an important Mormon pioneer. He was a leader and helped settle new towns in the western United States. Jens Nielson was part of the Mormon handcart pioneers group. They traveled a long way to Salt Lake City. He and his family helped start six towns. One of these was Bluff, Utah. In Bluff, he was a church leader for 26 years.

Jens Nielson's Early Life in Denmark

Jens Nielson was born in 1821 on an island called Lolland in Denmark. His parents were Niels Jensen and Dorthea Thomsen. Jens worked hard and became successful in the city of Aarhus. He owned land and animals there.

In 1852, Jens Nielson met missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He and his family decided to join the church. They were baptized on March 29, 1854.

A Difficult Pioneer Journey

After serving as a missionary in Denmark, Jens Nielson left his home country. He traveled with his wife, Elsie, and their five-year-old son. They also took responsibility for a young girl named Bodil Mortensen. Their goal was to reach Utah Territory.

Jens Nielson likely had enough money to travel more comfortably. However, he chose to join a group of pioneers who used handcarts. This group was led by Captain James G. Willie.

The journey was extremely difficult, especially when crossing a place called Rocky Ridge. Jens Nielson faced severe challenges. His feet became badly frozen, making it impossible for him to walk.

His wife, Elsie, showed great strength and love. She encouraged him to ride in the handcart. She told him she would pull the cart herself. They both worked hard to survive the trek.

Sadly, their six-year-old son, Niels, did not survive the journey. He was buried with other pioneers at Rock Creek. Jens Nielson later said that no one could truly understand how hard it was unless they lived through it.

During this journey, Jens Nielson's feet were so badly frozen that his right foot was permanently bent. He walked with a limp for the rest of his life.

Building New Communities

Jens Nielson became an important leader in southern Utah. He helped start several communities. He is known for founding towns like Cedar City and Bluff, Utah. These towns were part of the Hole-in-the-Rock expedition.

Nielson served as a bishop for the church in the Bluff area. People knew him for his kind leadership. He also had a strong accent and a determined attitude. Jens Nielson also helped as a translator for American Indian languages in San Juan County, Utah.

Later Life and Legacy

Jens Nielson passed away in 1906. He was still serving as a bishop at that time. He is buried on Cemetery Hill, which is above the town of Bluff.

One of the houses Jens Nielson lived in, located in Bluff, is still standing today. In 1982, this house was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This shows his lasting impact on the area.