William C. Dunbar facts for kids
William Cameron Dunbar (born October 26, 1822 – died June 8, 1905) was a Scottish man who became an early leader and traveler for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was known as a Mormon missionary, meaning he traveled to share his faith. He was also a Mormon pioneer, one of the first people to help build new communities in the American West. William Dunbar was one of the very first missionaries for his church in countries like France and Jersey.
Early Life and First Missions
William Cameron Dunbar was born in a town called Inverness in Scotland. When he was 18 years old, in 1840, he joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
From 1846 to 1852, William served as a missionary for his church. He traveled to England and France to teach people about his beliefs. In 1849, he joined another missionary, William Howells, and his daughter in France. This made William Dunbar the third missionary from his church to preach in France.
On his way to France, Dunbar stopped in Jersey, an island near France. He reported that there were already 44 members of his church there. He helped even more people learn about the church, and he baptized 60 new members during his visit.
Journey to Utah and Later Life
After his first mission ended in 1852, William Dunbar decided to move to Utah Territory in the United States. This was a long and difficult journey. Sadly, during the trip, the steamboat they were on, named the Saluda, had an engine explosion on the Missouri River. William was injured in the accident, and he lost his wife and two children.
Despite this great sadness, William continued his service in the church. He became a Seventy, which is a leadership role. In 1854 and 1855, he was sent back to France to be the mission president. This meant he was in charge of all the missionaries in that country.
When he returned to Utah, William Dunbar became a well-known person in the community. He was one of the people who helped start the Salt Lake Herald newspaper. He was also a talented performer, known for being a funny comedian, a good singer, and a skilled bagpiper.
William Cameron Dunbar passed away in Salt Lake City, Utah, in 1905.
