Thomas Levi Whittle facts for kids

Thomas Levi Whittle (born May 21, 1812 – died July 3, 1868) was an important Mormon pioneer. He was one of the first people to travel across the American Great Plains. He helped settle the area near Salt Lake City, which is now in Utah.

Early Life and Becoming a Member

Thomas Whittle was born in Mersea Township, Essex County, Upper Canada. His parents were Thomas Whittle and Elizabeth Levi. In 1833, he married Mary Amelia Fullmer. After a few years, they moved to Detroit, Michigan.

Thomas and his family learned about Mormonism from early missionaries. On November 22, 1837, Thomas and Mary were baptized. They became members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Zera Pulsipher performed their baptism.

Later, Thomas Whittle was baptized again. This happened on June 3, 1849, by William Clayton. This re-baptism was common for members of the church at that time. It happened after his family arrived in the Salt Lake Valley.

A Special Event for the Church

Thomas Whittle's wife, Mary, saw an important event in church history. This happened during a time when the church needed a new leader. Brigham Young spoke to a large group of church members. Many people said that Brigham Young seemed to look and sound like Joseph Smith. Joseph Smith had recently died.

This event helped many people believe that Brigham Young should be the next leader. It showed them that he was the right person to guide the church.

Before their journey west, Thomas and Mary received special blessings. These blessings are called ordinances. They received them in the Nauvoo Temple on January 1, 1846.

Journey to the West

Thomas Whittle and his family traveled to Winter Quarters, Nebraska. From there, they continued their journey to what is now Utah. They were among the first pioneers to enter the Salt Lake Valley.

The Whittle family traveled with a group led by Heber C. Kimball. They arrived in the Salt Lake Valley on September 20, 1848.

Mission to Hawaii

In 1849, Thomas Whittle was asked to serve a mission. He first headed to California. The next year, he was assigned to the Sandwich Islands, which are now called the Hawaiian Islands.

Thomas arrived in Honolulu on December 12, 1850. He was with nine other missionaries. They included George Q. Cannon. They traveled on a small whaling ship called the Imaum of Muscat.

The mission to the Hawaiian Islands was difficult for Thomas and some others. The Hawaiian language was hard to learn. Also, it was challenging to share their message. Thomas returned home after a short time.

After his mission, the Whittle family moved to Herriman, Utah. Later, they helped settle another town called Richmond, Utah.

Thomas Whittle died on July 3, 1868. To honor him, the Utah Territorial flag was flown at half-staff the next day.