George A. Smith

Date of Birth: June 26, 1817

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: September 1, 1875

Biography

George A. Smith was an influential clergyman and prominent leader in the early days of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Born on June 26, 1817, in Potsdam, New York, he was a cousin of Joseph Smith, the founder of the LDS Church. George A. Smith played a crucial role in the westward expansion of the Mormon community, including the establishment of settlements in Utah. In 1832, at the age of 15, George joined the LDS Church, and by 1839, he had become an ordained elder. He showed remarkable leadership and dedication, which led to his appointment as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1839. He was instrumental in organizing the migration of church members to the Salt Lake Valley in Utah and later served as a church historian and recorder. Smith’s commitment to his faith and community earned him the nickname “The Potato Saint” due to his efforts in encouraging the cultivation of potatoes during the early years of the Utah settlement, which helped prevent famine. He was also involved in the establishment of many cities in Utah, notably the city of Saint George, which was named in his honor. George A. Smith passed away on September 1, 1875, in Salt Lake City, Utah, leaving behind a legacy of faith, leadership, and community building.

5 Interesting Facts about George A. Smith

1. George A. Smith was a cousin of Joseph Smith, the founder of the LDS Church.

2. He was ordained as an elder in the LDS Church at the young age of 22.

3. He played a significant role in the westward migration of the LDS Church to Utah.

4. Due to his efforts in promoting potato cultivation, he was nicknamed “The Potato Saint.”

5. The city of Saint George, Utah, was named in his honor.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George A. Smith

1. “Faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore, if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true.”

2. “To be prepared for war is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace.”

3. “The spirit of the gospel is optimistic; it trusts in God and looks on the bright side of things.”

4. “The more we serve our fellowmen, the more substance we shall gain in life.”

5. “True happiness comes only by making others happy.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Though exact figures of his net worth are not documented, George A. Smith’s wealth was primarily in the form of land and resources, as befitting his status in the 19th-century Mormon community.

Children

George A. Smith had several children with his two wives, Bathsheba W. Bigler and Zilpha Stark. His children included notable figures such as John Henry Smith, who later became an apostle in the LDS Church.