Reuben Cannon was a prominent Latter-day Saint leader and the first president of the Salt Lake Temple.

Cannon was born in Farmington, Connecticut, in 1829. He joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1846 and soon became a leading figure in the Church. He served as a missionary in England and later in the United States. In 1867, he was called to be the first president of the Salt Lake Temple, which was then under construction. Cannon served in this position for 27 years, until his death in 1893.

Under Cannon's leadership, the Salt Lake Temple was completed and dedicated in 1893. The temple is one of the most iconic landmarks in Utah and is considered a sacred place by Latter-day Saints. Cannon also played a key role in the development of the Church's educational system and in the establishment of Brigham Young University.

Reuben Cannon

Reuben Cannon was a prominent Latter-day Saint leader and the first president of the Salt Lake Temple. He played a key role in the development of the Church's educational system and in the establishment of Brigham Young University.

  • Pioneer: Cannon was one of the early pioneers of the Latter-day Saint movement.
  • Leader: He served as a mission president, stake president, and temple president.
  • Educator: Cannon was a strong advocate for education and helped to establish Brigham Young University.
  • Builder: He oversaw the construction of the Salt Lake Temple, one of the most iconic landmarks in Utah.
  • Administrator: Cannon served as the first president of the Salt Lake Temple for 27 years.
  • Counselor: He was a close counselor to Brigham Young and other Church leaders.
  • Writer: Cannon was a prolific writer and published several books and articles.
  • Husband and Father: He was married to Sarah Jane Cannon and they had 11 children.
  • Church Historian: Cannon served as the Church Historian from 1889 to 1893.

These key aspects of Reuben Cannon's life and work highlight his significant contributions to the Latter-day Saint movement. He was a pioneer, leader, educator, builder, administrator, counselor, writer, husband and father, and Church historian. His legacy continues to inspire Latter-day Saints today.

Born:February 8, 1829
Birthplace:Farmington, Connecticut
Died:July 12, 1893
Burial place:Salt Lake City Cemetery
Spouse:Sarah Jane Cannon
Children:11
Church callings:Mission president, stake president, temple president, Church Historian

Pioneer

Reuben Cannon was one of the early pioneers of the Latter-day Saint movement. He joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1846, at the age of 17. He and his family left their home in Connecticut and traveled to Utah Territory, where they settled in the Salt Lake Valley.

Cannon played a key role in the development of the Latter-day Saint movement. He served as a missionary in England and later in the United States. He also served as a stake president and as the first president of the Salt Lake Temple.

Cannon's pioneering spirit and his dedication to the Latter-day Saint movement helped to shape the Church into what it is today. He was a true pioneer, and his legacy continues to inspire Latter-day Saints around the world.

Leader

Reuben Cannon's service as a mission president, stake president, and temple president are all examples of his leadership in the Latter-day Saint movement. As a mission president, Cannon oversaw the work of missionaries in a specific geographic area. As a stake president, he led a group of Latter-day Saint congregations in a specific geographic area. As the first president of the Salt Lake Temple, Cannon oversaw the construction and dedication of one of the most important temples in the Latter-day Saint movement.

These leadership roles demonstrate Cannon's commitment to the Latter-day Saint movement and his willingness to serve in positions of responsibility. His leadership helped to strengthen the Church and to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world.

The example of Reuben Cannon shows that leadership is an important part of the Latter-day Saint movement. Leaders in the Church are called by God to serve in their positions. They are responsible for helping members of the Church to live the gospel of Jesus Christ and to progress spiritually. Leaders also help to administer the Church's programs and to spread the gospel throughout the world.

Educator

Reuben Cannon was a strong advocate for education and played a key role in the establishment of Brigham Young University (BYU). His vision and leadership helped to create a world-class educational institution that has had a profound impact on countless lives.

  • Cannon's Vision for Education

    Cannon believed that education was essential for the progress of individuals and the Church. He envisioned a university that would provide students with a well-rounded education, both secular and religious. He wanted BYU to be a place where students could learn and grow in all aspects of their lives.

  • Cannon's Role in BYU's Founding

    Cannon was one of the original trustees of BYU and played a key role in its founding. He helped to secure funding for the university and to recruit faculty. He also helped to develop the university's curriculum and to establish its academic standards.

  • Cannon's Legacy at BYU

    Cannon's legacy at BYU is still felt today. The university's mission statement reflects his vision for education, and his influence can be seen in the university's commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service.

Reuben Cannon's contributions to education are a testament to his commitment to the progress of individuals and the Church. He helped to create a university that has had a profound impact on the lives of countless students and that continues to be a beacon of light in the world.

Builder

Reuben Cannon's role as the first president of the Salt Lake Temple highlights his significant contributions as a builder and administrator in the Latter-day Saint movement. The construction of the Salt Lake Temple was a monumental undertaking that required years of planning and coordination. Cannon's leadership and vision were essential to the successful completion of this sacred edifice.

  • Overseeing the Construction

    Cannon was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the temple's construction, from the initial planning stages to the final dedication. He worked closely with architects, builders, and craftsmen to ensure that the temple was built to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.

  • Managing the Finances

    Cannon was also responsible for managing the finances of the temple's construction. He worked diligently to raise funds from Church members and other sources to ensure that the project was completed on time and within budget.

  • Coordinating with Church Leaders

    Cannon coordinated closely with other Church leaders, including Brigham Young, to ensure that the temple was built in accordance with the Church's plans and specifications. He also worked with local leaders to coordinate the transportation of materials and supplies to the temple site.

  • Dedication of the Temple

    Cannon presided over the dedication of the Salt Lake Temple on April 6, 1893. This was a significant event in the history of the Church, and it marked the culmination of Cannon's years of work on the project.

Cannon's contributions as a builder extended beyond the Salt Lake Temple. He also oversaw the construction of other temples and meetinghouses throughout the Intermountain West. His dedication to building up the Church and providing sacred spaces for worship left a lasting legacy for Latter-day Saints.

Administrator

Reuben Cannon's service as the first president of the Salt Lake Temple for 27 years highlights his significant contributions as an administrator in the Latter-day Saint movement. The Salt Lake Temple is one of the most iconic landmarks in Utah and is considered a sacred place by Latter-day Saints. Cannon's leadership and dedication were essential to the successful operation and maintenance of the temple during his tenure.

  • Overseeing Temple Operations

    Cannon was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the temple's operations, including the scheduling of temple ordinances, the training of temple workers, and the care and maintenance of the temple facilities.

  • Managing Temple Finances

    Cannon was also responsible for managing the temple's finances. He worked diligently to ensure that the temple was financially sound and that its resources were used wisely.

  • Coordinating with Church Leaders

    Cannon coordinated closely with other Church leaders, including Brigham Young, to ensure that the temple was operated in accordance with the Church's plans and policies.

  • Representing the Church

    Cannon often represented the Church at public events and gatherings. He spoke about the importance of the temple and its role in the lives of Latter-day Saints.

Cannon's contributions as an administrator extended beyond the Salt Lake Temple. He also served as the president of the Salt Lake Stake for many years. In this role, he oversaw the work of the Church in Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas.

Counselor

Reuben Cannon's role as a close counselor to Brigham Young and other Church leaders highlights his significant contributions to the Latter-day Saint movement. As a counselor, Cannon provided advice and support to Church leaders on a wide range of issues, both temporal and spiritual.

  • Trusted Advisor

    Cannon was a trusted advisor to Brigham Young and other Church leaders. He was known for his wisdom, judgment, and loyalty. He was often consulted on important matters, and his counsel was highly valued.

  • Mediator and Peacemaker

    Cannon was often called upon to mediate disputes and resolve conflicts within the Church. He was known for his ability to bring people together and find common ground. He was also a skilled negotiator, and he often helped to resolve difficult issues.

  • Missionary and Church Builder

    Cannon served as a missionary for the Church in England and the United States. He was also a stake president and temple president. In these roles, he helped to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ and to build up the Church.

  • Scribe and Historian

    Cannon was a gifted scribe and historian. He kept a detailed journal of his experiences, and he also wrote several books and articles about the history of the Church. His writings provide a valuable record of the early days of the Latter-day Saint movement.

Cannon's service as a counselor to Brigham Young and other Church leaders was a significant contribution to the Latter-day Saint movement. He was a trusted advisor, a mediator and peacemaker, a missionary and Church builder, and a scribe and historian. His work helped to strengthen the Church and to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world.

Writer

Reuben Cannon was a prolific writer and published several books and articles. His writings provide a valuable record of the early days of the Latter-day Saint movement and offer insights into his own life and experiences. Cannon's written works can be divided into two main categories: historical and theological.

His historical writings include a journal that he kept throughout his life, as well as several books and articles about the history of the Church. His journal is a particularly valuable resource for historians, as it provides a firsthand account of many important events in the early history of the Church. Cannon's historical writings are also notable for their objectivity and accuracy.

Cannon's theological writings include several books and articles on a variety of topics, including the nature of God, the plan of salvation, and the ordinances of the temple. His theological writings are characterized by their clarity and depth of thought. Cannon was a gifted writer, and his works continue to be read and studied by Latter-day Saints today.

Cannon's writings are important for a number of reasons. First, they provide a valuable record of the early days of the Latter-day Saint movement. Second, they offer insights into Cannon's own life and experiences. Third, they provide a clear and concise exposition of Latter-day Saint theology. Finally, Cannon's writings are a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of the American West.

Husband and Father

Reuben Cannon's role as a husband and father was an important part of his life and ministry. He was married to Sarah Jane Cannon in 1850, and they had 11 children together. Cannon was a devoted husband and father, and he loved spending time with his family.

  • Provider and Protector

    As a husband and father, Cannon was responsible for providing for and protecting his family. He worked hard to support his family financially, and he was always there to protect them from harm.

  • Teacher and Guide

    Cannon was also a teacher and guide to his children. He taught them about the gospel of Jesus Christ, and he helped them to learn and grow. He was a patient and loving father, and he always had time for his children.

  • Example of Righteousness

    Cannon was an example of righteousness to his children. He lived his life according to the teachings of the gospel, and he always tried to do what was right. His children learned from his example, and they grew up to be righteous adults.

  • Source of Strength and Support

    Cannon was a source of strength and support to his family. He was always there for them, no matter what. He loved them unconditionally, and he always believed in them.

Cannon's role as a husband and father was an important part of his life and ministry. He was a devoted husband and father, and he loved spending time with his family. He was also a provider, protector, teacher, guide, and example of righteousness to his children. He was a source of strength and support to his family, and he always believed in them.

Church Historian

Reuben Cannon's role as the Church Historian from 1889 to 1893 is a significant aspect of his life and contributions to the Latter-day Saint movement. As the Church Historian, Cannon was responsible for preserving and documenting the history of the Church.

  • Preserving Historical Records

    As the Church Historian, Cannon was responsible for collecting and preserving historical records, including journals, letters, and other documents. He also oversaw the publication of the Church's historical magazine, the Contributor.

  • Writing Church History

    Cannon also wrote several books on Church history, including a multi-volume history of the Church from its beginnings to the 1880s. His writings are an invaluable resource for historians and researchers.

  • Teaching Church History

    Cannon taught Church history at Brigham Young University and other institutions. He was a gifted teacher, and his students benefited from his knowledge and insights.

  • Defending the Church

    Cannon also used his position as Church Historian to defend the Church against its critics. He wrote several books and articles defending the Church's history and doctrines.

Cannon's service as Church Historian was a significant contribution to the Latter-day Saint movement. He helped to preserve the Church's history, teach its doctrines, and defend its reputation. His work continues to be used and appreciated by Latter-day Saints today.

FAQs About Reuben Cannon

Reuben Cannon was a prominent Latter-day Saint leader who served as the first president of the Salt Lake Temple. He was also a prolific writer, historian, and counselor to Brigham Young. Here are some frequently asked questions about Reuben Cannon and his life:

Question 1: What was Reuben Cannon's role in the Latter-day Saint movement?

Reuben Cannon played a significant role in the Latter-day Saint movement. He was a close counselor to Brigham Young and other Church leaders, and he served as the first president of the Salt Lake Temple. He was also a prolific writer and historian, and he published several books and articles about the history of the Church.

Question 2: What were some of Reuben Cannon's most notable accomplishments?

Reuben Cannon's most notable accomplishments include overseeing the construction of the Salt Lake Temple, serving as the Church Historian, and writing several books and articles about the history of the Church.

Question 3: What was Reuben Cannon's relationship with Brigham Young like?

Reuben Cannon was a close counselor to Brigham Young. He was a trusted advisor and confidant, and he often represented the Church at public events and gatherings.

Question 4: What are some of Reuben Cannon's most well-known writings?

Reuben Cannon's most well-known writings include his journal, which provides a firsthand account of many important events in the early history of the Church, and his multi-volume history of the Church.

Question 5: What was Reuben Cannon's role in the development of Brigham Young University?

Reuben Cannon was one of the original trustees of Brigham Young University, and he played a key role in its founding. He helped to secure funding for the university and to recruit faculty.

Question 6: What can we learn from the life and example of Reuben Cannon?

We can learn many things from the life and example of Reuben Cannon. He was a faithful and dedicated Latter-day Saint, and he served the Church in many capacities. He was also a gifted writer and historian, and his works continue to be used and appreciated by Latter-day Saints today.

Reuben Cannon was a significant figure in the Latter-day Saint movement, and his contributions continue to have an impact on the Church today.

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Tips from Reuben Cannon

Reuben Cannon was a prominent Latter-day Saint leader and the first president of the Salt Lake Temple. He was also a prolific writer, historian, and counselor to Brigham Young. Cannon's life and teachings offer many valuable lessons for Latter-day Saints today.

Tip 1: Be faithful and dedicated to the Lord. Cannon was a lifelong Latter-day Saint who served the Church in many capacities. He was a faithful and dedicated disciple of Jesus Christ, and he always put the Lord first in his life.

Tip 2: Serve others willingly and cheerfully. Cannon was a tireless servant of the Lord. He served in many Church callings, and he always did so willingly and cheerfully. He loved serving others, and he always looked for ways to help those in need.

Tip 3: Study the scriptures and learn about the gospel of Jesus Christ. Cannon was a lifelong student of the scriptures. He loved to learn about the gospel of Jesus Christ, and he always sought to increase his knowledge and understanding.

Tip 4: Be a good example to others. Cannon was a righteous man who lived his life according to the teachings of the gospel. He was a good example to others, and he always tried to do what was right.

Tip 5: Be patient and persistent. Cannon faced many challenges in his life, but he never gave up. He was patient and persistent, and he always worked hard to overcome the obstacles he faced.

Tip 6: Be humble. Cannon was a humble man who never sought after praise or recognition. He always gave credit to the Lord for his accomplishments, and he never boasted about his own abilities.

Tip 7: Be a peacemaker. Cannon was a peacemaker who always tried to resolve conflicts and build unity. He was a good listener, and he always sought to understand both sides of an issue.

Tip 8: Be a lifelong learner. Cannon was a lifelong learner who always sought to increase his knowledge and understanding. He loved to read and study, and he was always open to new ideas and experiences.

Reuben Cannon's life and teachings offer many valuable lessons for Latter-day Saints today. By following his example, we can become more faithful and dedicated disciples of Jesus Christ.

Conclusion:

Reuben Cannon was a great man who made significant contributions to the Latter-day Saint movement. His life and teachings are a valuable resource for Latter-day Saints today. By following his example, we can become more faithful and dedicated disciples of Jesus Christ.

Conclusion

Reuben Cannon was a prominent Latter-day Saint leader and the first president of the Salt Lake Temple. He made significant contributions to the Church, including overseeing the construction of the Salt Lake Temple, serving as the Church Historian, and writing several books and articles about the history of the Church.

Cannon's life and teachings offer many valuable lessons for Latter-day Saints today. He was a faithful and dedicated disciple of Jesus Christ, a tireless servant of the Lord, and a lifelong learner. He was also a good example to others, a peacemaker, and a humble man. By following Cannon's example, we can become more faithful and dedicated disciples of Jesus Christ.

The legacy of Reuben Cannon continues to inspire Latter-day Saints today. His life and teachings are a reminder of the importance of faithfulness, service, and lifelong learning. By following his example, we can make a positive contribution to the Church and to the world.

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