Chapter

Sketch of Joseph William Smith

Joseph William Smith, son of Martha Ann Lune and Stephen Smith, was born at Keighley Yorkshire, England, Nov. 3, 1867. Joe was a young man when, with his parents, was converted to the Mormon Church and emigrated to America. Upon their arrival in the United States, they came direct to Grantsville … located in a small log house that was owned by Wrathall … situated in the north east part of town, on North Street … across the way from the home of his future bride-to-be.

Their first meeting came about when Joe’s mother sent him over to fill a bed tick with straw (which took the place of our modern mattresses) and much to this English lad’s surprise there were seven pretty lassies (all sisters) but Joe had eyes for only Rachel .. Daughter of Mary Ann Clark and John Anderson. Months of courtship … then one evening he came to see her with the surprise offer of marriage … Rachel blushed, stammered, but later proudly accepted him … and in the fall, Nov. 28, 1889, they were united in marriage at the Logan Temple, returning to Grantsville where they made their home … nine children were born to them … five of whom are living at present. Joseph obtained his schooling in England. He was keen, mentally alert, a fast and good speller and writer, excelled in mathematics … liked clean wholesome fun, which contributed to that good sense of humor that made him an good social mixer (he was blessed with an great power of memory)

His grandfather and father were musicians, his mother played the organ and was exceptionally good on the constantina (a musical instrument somewhat like an Accordian). Therefore music was easy, he was noted for perfect time and rhythm. He played in the Orchestra and drummer in the Grantsville Silver band.

At the age of 52 years … an employee of Salt Lake Chemical plant at Burmester was killed by a fall from a ladder about 3:00 on a Friday … 1920 … his passing away was one deep regret, not only to the immediate family but also to his many friends.

“The longer on earth we live

And weight the various qualities of men,

The more we feel the high, stern featured beauty of plain devotedness to duty

Steadfast and still, nor paid with Mortal praise

But finding amplist recompense for fie’s ungarlended expense

In work done squarely and unwasted deep.”

This was the code of living of Joseph William Smith, born Nov. 3, 1867 at Oakworth, Yorkshire, England.

A great deal is not known of Joseph’s early youth in England, but at the age of 17, he came with his parents to America, converts to the church. But we do know from his life here, “Joe” knew the word – “work”. He was neer content to put things off until tomorrow. His working hours of the day were long and at the close of each day he had to feel that he had accomplished something. He firmly believed that one should never go in debt for the luxuries of life but should be sure of the necessities. Because of his type of work, he had little time for church activities but was anxious for his children to be active. His many plans for his family were never to materialize because of his sudden death Aug. 6, 1920. He left, not wealth, but a good heritage to his family and the belief in “and honest days pay with and hoest days work” and that idleness is the devil’s workshop so to spend the hours the Lord has given us with worthwhile energy and accomplishments.

We are proud to have been reared in a family where religion was considered important.