Thomas Burdick facts for kids

Thomas Burdick (born November 17, 1795 or 1797; died November 6, 1877) was an important leader in the early Latter Day Saint movement. He was also a Mormon pioneer who traveled west and a politician in Los Angeles County, California.

Thomas Burdick's Early Life and Faith

Thomas Burdick was born in Canajoharie, New York. In 1828, he married Anna Higley. A few years later, in 1834, the Burdicks heard a missionary named Sidney Rigdon preach. They decided to join the Church of the Latter Day Saints, which was led by Joseph Smith.

Moving to Kirtland, Ohio

The Burdick family moved to Kirtland, Ohio. This was where many Latter Day Saints were gathering. Thomas Burdick became an elder in the church. In 1836, he was given the job of managing the church's membership records. The next year, in 1837, he became a high priest. He also joined the presiding high council in Kirtland.

In 1838, Thomas Burdick was one of twelve high priests chosen by Bishop Newel K. Whitney. They formed the first Common Council of the Church. This group listened to important church matters. Besides his church duties, Burdick also taught school. He was also a justice of the peace in Kirtland, which meant he helped with local legal issues.

Journey West with the Pioneers

After 1838, most Latter Day Saints left Kirtland. However, Thomas Burdick stayed behind. On May 22, 1841, he was appointed the church bishop in Kirtland.

Following Brigham Young

After Joseph Smith died in 1844, Thomas Burdick decided to follow the new leader, Brigham Young. He made plans to travel west with Young's followers. Burdick stayed in Kanesville, Iowa until 1853. That year, he led a large group of over 100 wagons. This group of Mormon pioneers traveled all the way to Salt Lake City, in what was then Utah Territory.

Settling in California

After reaching Salt Lake City, many in Burdick's group, including his family, decided to keep going. They wanted to reach the Mormon settlement in San Bernardino, California. In the winter of 1853–54, the Burdick family settled in San Gabriel Township, California.

Public Service in Los Angeles

In 1855, Thomas Burdick was elected to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. This meant he helped make important decisions for Los Angeles County. He served two terms, each lasting one year.

Later Life and Family

Thomas Burdick passed away in Los Angeles from a condition called apoplexy. He and his wife, Anna, had seven children together. One of their sons, Cyrus Burdick, later helped start the city of Pomona, California.

Thomas Burdick's sister was Rebecca Burdick Winters. She was also a famous Mormon pioneer. Her grave site is well-known along the historic Mormon Trail.