Orson F. Whitney
Orson F. Whitney
A devoted son of Mormonism and a stalwart advocate for its principles.
Full Name and Common Aliases
Orson Ferguson Whitney was born on August 1, 1859, in Salt Lake City, Utah Territory, to Henry and Elizabeth Whitney. He is often referred to as O.F. Whitney or simply Brother Whitney by his contemporaries.
Birth and Death Dates
August 1, 1859 – June 28, 1931
Nationality and Profession(s)
American | Missionary, Writer, Editor, and Church Leader
Early Life and Background
Orson F. Whitney was born into a prominent Mormon family in Salt Lake City. His father, Henry Whitney, was a lawyer, judge, and historian who served as the mayor of Salt Lake City from 1867 to 1870. Orson's mother, Elizabeth, was a devoted wife and homemaker who instilled in her children strong moral values and a deep commitment to their faith.
As a young man, Orson F. Whitney was raised in a family that valued education, hard work, and community service. He attended the University of Michigan, where he studied law and literature before returning to Utah to join the Mormon Church's mission field. In 1880, he married Annie Taylor Hyde, with whom he would have three children.
Major Accomplishments
Orson F. Whitney was a multifaceted individual who made significant contributions to his community and the Mormon faith. He served as:
A missionary in England from 1881 to 1886, where he learned the language and developed his writing skills.
An editor of the Deseret Evening News, a prominent Utah newspaper.
A member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) from 1906 until his death in 1931.Notable Works or Actions
Orson F. Whitney was a prolific writer, poet, and historian who wrote extensively on Mormon history, doctrine, and culture. Some notable works include:
"History of Utah" (1919), a comprehensive two-volume history of the state.
* "The Day of the Lord" (1920), a prophetic and theological work that explores the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
Impact and Legacy
Orson F. Whitney's impact on Mormonism and Utah society is undeniable. As an apostle, he played a crucial role in shaping church doctrine and policy during a pivotal period in its history. His writings continue to be studied by scholars and laypeople alike for their insights into the faith and its practices.
Whitney's legacy extends beyond his written works, however. He was a devoted family man who instilled in his children the values of hard work, education, and community service that would serve them well throughout their lives.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Orson F. Whitney is widely quoted and remembered for his insightful writings on Mormon history, doctrine, and culture. His prophetic works, such as "The Day of the Lord," continue to resonate with readers who seek a deeper understanding of the Second Coming and its significance.
As an apostle and editor, Orson F. Whitney played a significant role in shaping the LDS Church's narrative and values. His commitment to his faith and community has made him a respected figure within Mormonism, and his written works remain an important part of its literary heritage.
Quotes by Orson F. Whitney
Sound moral principle is the only sure evidence of strength, the only firm foundation of greatness and perpetuity. Where this is lacking, no man’s character is strong; no nation’s life can be lasting.
The God we worship is no respecter of persons, but He is a respecter of men’s rights, and a guardian of them-a fact clearly shown in the heaven-inspired Constitution of our country, and in the Gospel itself, which might be termed the Constitution of Eternity.
No pain that we suffer, no trial that we experience is wasted. All that we suffer and all that we endure, especially when we endure it patiently, builds up our characters, purifies our hearts, expands our souls, and makes us more tender and charitable.
The fetters of tyranny were not stricken from America for the sake of Americans alone.
There is nothing so important, so imperative, as the delivery of the divine message that has been entrusted to us.
It is through sorrow and suffering, toil and tribulation, that we gain the education that we come here to acquire and which will make us more like our Father and Mother in heaven.
This was one of the greatest test of his faith he had ever experienced. The thought of deceiving the kind and faithful wife of his youth... was more than he felt able to bear.... his sorrow and misery were increased by the thought of my mother hearing it from some other source, which would no doubt separate them, and he shrank from the thought of such a thing, or of causing her any unhappiness.
The God we worship is no respecter of persons, but He is a respecter of men's rights, and a guardian of them-a fact clearly shown in the heaven-inspired Constitution of our country, and in the Gospel itself, which might be termed the Constitution of Eternity.
There is only one way into the Kingdom of Heaven, but there are many ways into the human heart: and the Church of Christ, ln its mission of promulgating truth and turning souls of righteousness, has legitimate use for every avenue of the heart.
