Eliza R. Snow, American poet and hymn-writer (d. 1887)

Eliza Roxcy Snow: A Pillar of Nineteenth-Century Latter-day Saint Society

Eliza Roxcy Snow (January 21, 1804 – December 5, 1887) stands as one of the most prominent and celebrated women in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during the foundational nineteenth century. Her profound influence stemmed from her multifaceted roles as a prolific poet, a pioneering leader, and a devoted participant in the early development of her faith. Born in Becket, Massachusetts, Snow's remarkable life journey led her from Ohio to Nauvoo, Illinois, and ultimately to the challenging but formative environment of the Utah Territory, where she helped shape the cultural and spiritual landscape of the burgeoning Latter-day Saint community.

A Renowned Poet and Chronicler of Faith

Beyond her administrative roles, Eliza R. Snow was widely recognized as a gifted and prolific poet, using her literary talents to articulate the spiritual experiences and historical narratives of her people. Her extensive body of work chronicled the unfolding saga of the Latter-day Saints, vividly celebrated the beauty of nature, tenderly explored human relationships, and profoundly expounded on sacred scripture and core doctrine. Many of her deeply spiritual verses became beloved hymns, cherished by generations. Perhaps her most enduring contribution in this realm is the hymn "O My Father," a cornerstone of Latter-day Saint hymnody that eloquently expresses theological concepts such as the nature of a Heavenly Mother and the pre-mortal existence. Her poetry thus served not only as artistic expression but also as a vital means of documenting history and solidifying doctrinal understanding within the growing faith.

Navigating Plural Marriage and Early Church Leadership

Eliza R. Snow's personal life was intrinsically linked to the early practice of plural marriage, a significant and often challenging aspect of Latter-day Saint history during that era. She was married to Joseph Smith, the founder and first president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as a plural wife. Following Smith's tragic death in 1844, she openly entered into a plural marriage with Brigham Young, his successor and the key figure who led the Latter-day Saints' migration westward to the Salt Lake Valley. Her participation in these relationships reflected a deep personal conviction and commitment to the principles of her faith as they were understood and practiced at the time, navigating the complexities of these unions with resilience and devotion.

The Transformative Leadership of the Relief Society

One of Eliza R. Snow's most enduring and impactful contributions was her leadership as the second General President of the Relief Society of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While the Relief Society was originally organized by Joseph Smith in Nauvoo, Illinois, in March 1842, its formal activities largely ceased during the tumultuous period of persecution and westward migration. Recognizing its vital importance, Brigham Young called upon Eliza R. Snow to reestablish the organization throughout the settlements of the Utah Territory in 1866. Under her dynamic leadership, the Relief Society experienced unprecedented growth and expansion. She meticulously oversaw its revitalization, transforming it into a powerful, decentralized women's organization dedicated to an expansive range of initiatives including:

Her presidency, which lasted from 1866 until her death in 1887, firmly established the Relief Society as a vital, integral, and enduring institution within the Church, shaping its structure and purpose for future generations worldwide.

Family Connections and Enduring Legacy

Eliza R. Snow's prominent standing within the Church was further emphasized by her family ties; she was the elder sister of Lorenzo Snow, who would later become the fifth President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving from 1898 to 1901. This familial connection highlights the deep roots and influence her family held within the ecclesiastical leadership. Eliza R. Snow's legacy as a trailblazing pioneer, a profound poet, a visionary leader, and an unwavering disciple continues to resonate, embodying the strength, resilience, and spiritual depth of Latter-day Saint women during a pivotal era of their faith's history. Her life remains a testament to the power of dedication and service in building a community and preserving a heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eliza R. Snow

Who was Eliza R. Snow?
Eliza Roxcy Snow was a highly influential and celebrated Latter-day Saint woman of the 19th century, renowned as a poet, a significant leader in the Relief Society, and a key figure in the early history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
What was Eliza R. Snow's most significant role within the Church?
Her most significant institutional role was as the second General President of the Relief Society, which she reestablished and vastly expanded across Utah Territory from 1866 until her death in 1887. Under her leadership, the Relief Society became a powerful organization focused on women's spiritual development, charity, education, and community welfare.
Did Eliza R. Snow write any well-known hymns?
Yes, she was a prolific hymn writer. Her most famous and enduring hymn is "O My Father," a beloved piece within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that explores profound theological concepts.
What was Eliza R. Snow's relationship with Joseph Smith and Brigham Young?
Eliza R. Snow was married to Joseph Smith as a plural wife. Following Smith's death, she openly entered into a plural marriage with Brigham Young. These marriages were part of the early Latter-day Saint practice of plural marriage during the 19th century.
What was Eliza R. Snow's connection to Lorenzo Snow?
Eliza R. Snow was the elder sister of Lorenzo Snow, who later served as the fifth President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1898 to 1901, further highlighting her family's prominent role in the Church.