Brigham Young's Final Marriage: A Union with Hannah Tapfield
Understanding Brigham Young: A Leader in Faith
Brigham Young, renowned as a central figure in the American religious landscape, significantly influenced the history of the Latter Day Saint movement. Following the death of Joseph Smith, the church's founder, he rose to prominence as the second President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Young was pivotal in leading the Mormon pioneers across treacherous terrains to establish Salt Lake City in Utah, which became a refuge for members of his faith.
Who Was Hannah Tapfield?
Born in 1804, Hannah Tapfield was no ordinary individual; she was a celebrated American poet whose literary works enriched the early Latter Day Saint community. Even before her marriage to Brigham Young, Tapfield had made a name for herself, known for her eloquence and cultural contributions that would ultimately complement Young's leadership and influence.
The Marriage of Brigham Young and Hannah Tapfield
The Ceremony in 1872: A Historical Context
On July 22, 1872, in a ceremony held in Salt Lake City, Brigham Young married Hannah Tapfield. This union served as a reflection of both individual choice and the polygamous practices prevalent within the Latter-day Saint community at the time. At the age of 71, Young was already a revered figure in Mormon history, having embraced the practice of marrying multiple wives over his lifetime, which he believed was part of divine edict.
The Unique Nature of This Marriage
This marriage was particularly significant as it marked Young's 55th and final marriage. It underscored not only Young's personal journey through love and companionship but also illuminated the intricate social structures of the Mormon community in the 19th century. During this period, marriages were often interpreted through the dual lenses of religious obligation and personal affection, leading to varied interpretations and emotional experiences.
Brigham Young’s Family and Legacy
A Peek into Young's Family Structure
Brigham Young's personal life was illustrative of the teachings of polygamy that dominated early Latter-day Saint doctrine. Over the course of his lifetime, he fathered an astounding 56 children with his various wives, shaping a large family structure that was emblematic of his faith's tenets. This unique family situation raises intriguing questions, such as how many wives did Brigham Young have? and what were their ages when they married him? A question worth exploring is how old were Brigham Young's wives when they married? Young's youngest noted wife was Helen Mar Kimball, who was only 14 at the time of their marriage.
Interesting Trivia: Brigham Young's Marital Journey
There are various anecdotes and historical accounts regarding Brigham Young's family life, including whether Did Brigham Young marry his daughter? The answer is no; Young did not marry any of his daughters. His relationships were primarily with a wide variety of women who contributed to the fabric of his expansive family. Such dynamics prompt questions about the order of Brigham Young wives and the various backgrounds from which they came.
Further Reading and Resources
Enrich Your Understanding of Brigham Young
For those keen on delving deeper into the life and impact of Brigham Young, the following readings are highly recommended:
- “Brigham Young: Pioneer Prophet” by John G. Turner
- “The Mormon Faith: A New Look at Christianity” by David E. Rumley
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