Martin Henderson Harris facts for kids

Martin Henderson Harris (born September 29, 1820 – died February 14, 1889) was an important Mormon pioneer and leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was also an early expert in growing plants (a horticulturalist) in Utah. He helped start and settle the communities of Harrisville, Utah (which was named after him) and Fort Lemhi, Idaho.

Who Was Martin Henderson Harris?

Martin Henderson Harris was born in Pennsylvania. His parents were Emer Harris and Deborah Lott. He was the nephew of Martin Harris, who was one of the Three Witnesses to the Book of Mormon. Martin Henderson Harris was also related to Thomas Harris, who helped found Providence, Rhode Island.

Early Life and Faith

Martin Henderson Harris joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in September 1842. This happened near Nauvoo, Illinois. He worked as a guard in Nauvoo to protect Joseph Smith from angry crowds. He also served in the Nauvoo Legion, which was like a local militia. He saw the start of the Nauvoo Temple being built.

Journey to Utah

In 1846, Martin Henderson Harris and other Latter-day Saints were forced to leave Nauvoo. He lived for a while in St. Louis, Missouri. Then, in 1850, he moved to Kanesville, Iowa before traveling to Utah.

Building a Community

In 1851, Harris began farming in the area that is now called Harrisville. He built a house and fenced his land. His house was the first one west of Four Mile Creek. It was also the only house that stayed standing during a time called "The Move South." Because of this, the community was later named after him.

A Leader in Harrisville

Martin Henderson Harris was a key leader in his community. He was the president of the first Latter-day Saint co-operative store in Ogden. This was a store owned by the community. He also worked as a road commissioner for Weber County for 11 years. He helped plan many of the main roads in that area. In 1853, he became a Seventy in the Church. He served as secretary for a Church group for many years. He was also the first missionary called from his area to the Salmon River Mission.

Teaching and Learning

In 1863, Harris was asked to lead the Eighth ecclesiastical district, which later became Harrisville. He taught the first school in Harrisville in his own home without pay. He also became the first superintendent of the Sunday school there in 1865. He held this job for several years. He also worked as a clerk for his district or ward for many years. He gathered information to write the history of the Harrisville Ward for 25 years, starting in 1850.

A Green Thumb: Planting Trees

Harris became known as an expert in growing plants and trees. He was an experimental horticulturist. He planted many trees from other parts of the United States. At the time, people thought these trees would not grow well in Utah's climate. Some hardwood trees that Harris planted in 1876 are still standing today. He planted them to celebrate America's 100th birthday. In 1976, for America's 200th birthday, the city of Harrisville bought land that Harris once owned. This land became the Martin Henderson Harris Memorial Park.

Later Years and Legacy

In 1877, Harris was asked to serve a one-year mission in the Eastern States. However, he became sick and had to return home. He never fully got better. Martin Henderson Harris died on February 14, 1889, in Harrisville. He was buried in the Ogden City Cemetery. In 1955, his family and the people of Harrisville built a monument to honor him. This was on the 105th anniversary of his arrival in Weber County.

His Family

Martin Henderson Harris married Georgiana Maria Aldous on January 18, 1855. She passed away in 1858, leaving behind their son, Emer. Harris then married Louisa Sargent on April 3, 1859. Louisa had survived the Saluda (steamship) accident. Martin and Louisa had six children together. One of their children was Nathan J. Harris, who became an important judge in Utah.