Sons of Utah Pioneers facts for kids
The National Society of the Sons of Utah Pioneers (SUP) is a group that works to keep alive the history of the Mormon Pioneers. These pioneers were early settlers who traveled to Utah and other parts of the American West. The Sons of Utah Pioneers welcomes all men who are interested in learning about these pioneers. You don't need to have pioneer ancestors to join!
Contents
What is the Sons of Utah Pioneers?
The Sons of Utah Pioneers, often called SUP, is an organization focused on history. Its main goal is to remember and study the brave people who settled Utah. These pioneers faced many challenges as they moved west and built new communities.
How the SUP Started
The Sons of Utah Pioneers officially began in 1933. Its very first national leader was a man named Lawrence T. Epperson. After him, Nephi L. Morris became the president.
In 1947, a special event happened. It was 100 years since the first Mormon pioneers arrived in the Great Salt Lake Valley. To celebrate, the Sons of Utah Pioneers organized a big trip. They followed the same path the original pioneers took to Utah. At that time, a well-known writer and newspaper publisher, Wendell J. Ashton, was the national president of the SUP.
Where the SUP is Located
In 1982, the Sons of Utah Pioneers opened its main building. This building is in the East Mill Creek area of Salt Lake City. It holds the offices where the group is managed. It also has a library full of books and documents about pioneer history. There are also rooms for meetings and events for both local and national members.
What Members Do
Members of the Sons of Utah Pioneers are part of smaller groups called chapters. These chapters usually meet once a month. At these meetings, people listen to speakers who share interesting facts about history, geography, and the lives of important pioneers. They also learn about Mormon culture.
Exploring History on Treks
Chapters often plan special trips called "treks." These trips can last from one day to a whole week. During a trek, members travel to important historical places. This helps them learn more about pioneer history in a fun, hands-on way. It's also a great chance to meet and socialize with other people who love history.
Sharing Pioneer Stories
The Sons of Utah Pioneers also publishes a magazine called Pioneer. This magazine comes out four times a year and is printed in full color. It has articles, photos, and artwork. These pieces tell stories about the Mormon Pioneers as a group, and about the individual people and families who were part of this important movement. The magazine also covers the places they settled.
Learning at Symposiums
The organization hosts an annual history event called a symposium. This big meeting takes place at their main building in Salt Lake City. They also hold smaller history symposiums in other parts of the western United States. These events are great opportunities for members and others to learn even more about pioneer history from experts.
See also
- Daughters of the Utah Handcart Pioneers
- Daughters of Utah Pioneers
- List of Mormon family organizations
- Mormon pioneers
- List of Sons of Utah Pioneers historic monuments