William S. S. Willes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William S. S. Willes
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| Born | March 18, 1819 |
| Died | February 3, 1871 (aged 51) |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Territorial militia captain City councilman |
| Spouse(s) | Lucinda Alzina Lott (1852) Docia Emmerine Molen (1857) |
| Children | 11 |
William Sydney Smith Willes (March 18, 1819 – February 3, 1871) was also known as Sidney Willes. He was an important Mormon pioneer and a member of the Mormon Battalion. He also helped found the city of Lehi, Utah.
Contents
Sidney Willes' Early Life and Family
Sidney Willes was born in Jefferson County, New York. In 1846, he joined the Mormon Battalion. This was a group of Latter-day Saint volunteers who marched for the United States Army. He served as a private in Company B.
Moving to Utah and Starting a Family
In 1851, Willes arrived in Lehi, Utah. The next year, in 1852, he married Lucinda Alzina Lott. She was 18 years old and the daughter of Cornelius P. Lott. William and Lucinda had 10 children together.
A few years later, Willes had another marriage with Docia Emmerine Molen. They had one child together. Docia later married Lucinda's older brother in 1862. Willes did not have any more marriages after this.
Public Service in Lehi
Sidney Willes was very active in the early government of Lehi, Utah. He helped shape the new community.
Serving on the City Council
In 1853, he became a member of Lehi's first city council. This group helped make important decisions for the growing town. He also served as an Alderman later on.
Military Roles and Conflicts
Willes was also a captain in the Lehi division of the Utah Territory militia. This group was called the Nauvoo Legion. He was involved in two important conflicts during this time. These were the Walker War and the Utah War. These events were important for the safety and growth of the early settlements.
Community Involvement
Beyond government and military, Willes helped in other ways. In 1865, he was part of the Lehi Library Association. He also became a member of the LDS Church's sixty-eighth quorum of Seventy. This was when it was formed in Lehi in 1862.
Mission to England and Pioneer Company
In April 1863, Sidney Willes was asked to serve a mission. He traveled to England to share his faith.
After his mission, he returned to the United States. In late summer 1865, he led a group of pioneers. This company included people from England and Germany. They traveled across the plains to Utah.
Later Life and Legacy
Sidney Willes passed away on February 3, 1871. He was 51 years old. He is remembered as a dedicated pioneer and leader in the early history of Utah.
