Orson Pratt Huish facts for kids
Orson Pratt Huish (born September 5, 1851 – died December 4, 1932) was a very talented person. He wrote many songs and hymns. One of his most famous hymns is "Come Unto Jesus." This song is still sung by many choirs and people today. His music has touched the hearts of many.
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Who Was Orson Pratt Huish?
Orson Pratt Huish was born in a place called Blaenavon, in Wales, United Kingdom. He was named after Orson Pratt, an important leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. When Orson was nine years old, he moved to the United States. He traveled with his mother and siblings to join his father in St. Louis, Missouri.
Early Life and Family
In 1861, Orson's family moved to Utah. They were part of a group called Mormon pioneers. They settled in a town called Payson, Utah. As a young person, Orson worked on farms and ranches. This helped him learn about hard work and life in the West.
His Musical Band
Orson loved music. In 1880, he started a band with his brothers and sister. They called themselves the "Huish Band." The band traveled all over Utah. They often played music for dances. Orson had learned to play in a band from another musician in Payson, John D. Stark. In 1872, Orson married Ann Pickering.
Other Talents
Orson Pratt Huish had many different talents. Besides music, he also owned several general stores. He had stores in places like Moab, Utah, and Albuquerque, New Mexico. He even opened a store called Huish Drug.
Orson was also a skilled photographer. He had a company called Huish and Hinshaw. They took many pictures in Utah and Arizona. On top of all this, Orson was a painter. His artwork is even mentioned in a book about Utah artists.
His Famous Songs
Orson Pratt Huish wrote more than 300 songs during his life. Most of these songs were never officially published. However, some of his hymns became very well-known.
Hymns and School Songs
In a church songbook from 1948, three of his songs were included. These were "Come Unto Jesus," "Jesus, My Savior True, Guide Me to Thee," and "Utah, the Star of the West." In a later songbook from 1985, "Come Unto Jesus" and "Jesus, My Savior True" were still there. Another hymn, "Come All Ye Sons Of God," also has music written by Orson Huish.
He also wrote other special songs. One was "The Silver and Green," which is the song for Payson High School. He also wrote a funeral hymn called "Blessed Are the Dead." Orson Huish's music is still available today. You can find his songs on their own or mixed into other musical pieces.
