Lewis W. Shurtliff facts for kids
Lewis Warren Shurtliff (born July 24, 1835 – died May 2, 1922) was a key figure in Utah's history. He was a politician and a respected leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often called the LDS Church.
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Early Life and Pioneer Journey
Lewis Warren Shurtliff was born in Sullivan, Ohio. When he was a baby, his parents joined the Church of the Latter Day Saints. His family moved with Joseph Smith to several places. These included Kirtland, Ohio, Far West, Missouri, and Nauvoo, Illinois.
In 1851, the Shurtliff family made a long journey. They traveled to Utah Territory as Mormon pioneers. They eventually settled in Weber County.
Missionary Work
Lewis Shurtliff spent many years serving as a missionary. From 1855 to 1858, he was a Mormon missionary to Native American communities. This work took place in what is now Salmon River, Idaho.
In 1867, he went on another mission. This time, he traveled across the ocean. He served in many countries, including England, Scotland, Wales, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, and Italy.
Church Leadership Roles
After his missions, Lewis Shurtliff returned to Utah. He became a Bishop in the LDS Church. A bishop leads a local congregation, similar to a pastor. His congregation was in Plain City.
In 1883, he took on an even bigger role. He became the president of the church's Weber Stake. A stake is a larger group of congregations. This stake was based in Ogden. Also in 1883, Shurtliff was invited to join the church's Council of Fifty. This was a special group that helped with important decisions.
Political Career
Lewis Shurtliff also served the public through politics. In 1886 and 1888, he was elected to the Utah Territorial Council. This council helped govern Utah before it became a state.
When Utah became a state in 1896, Shurtliff continued his public service. He became a State Senator. He served in the State Senate from 1896 to 1899. He started his political career as a Democrat. Later, he changed and became a Republican.
Besides these roles, Shurtliff also worked as a Weber County Commissioner. This job involved managing county affairs. He also served as a Weber County probate judge. In 1904, he was the 1st Vice President of the 12th National Irrigation Congress. This group worked on important water projects.
Legacy and Family
In 1896, a settlement in Utah was renamed to honor Lewis Shurtliff. The town of Salt Creek became known as Warren.
Lewis Shurtliff passed away in Ogden, Utah. One of his daughters, Louie Emily Shurtliff, married Joseph Fielding Smith. After her death, Joseph Fielding Smith became an apostle. He later became the President of the LDS Church.
