of the Sons of Utah Pioneers, by Orson D. Wright, DDS

Guardians of Pioneer Heritage The HISTORY of the Sons of Utah Pioneers e

by Orson D. Wright, 1972 SUP President

On May 10, 1869, the Union Pacific Railroad met the Southern Pacific Railroad and the Golden Spike was driven, marking the completion of the two railroads. This union gave Utah Territory stability and strength. The establishment of the railroad, heralding progress and development, became an official cut-off date between the past and the new West. It has become tradition to refer to those arriving before the completion of the railroad as “the pioneers.”

First Seeds Planted

Efforts were made by 1897 to recognize those pioneers arriving in the territory before May 10, 1869, by forming commemorative organizations. In 1897 a unified organization formed that was called “The Sons and Daughters of Utah Pioneers.” Elder George Albert Smith and Susa Young Gates appear to have been the principal moving individuals of the early organization.

The first public gathering of the Sons and Daughters of Utah Pioneers was held in Utah County at Springville, with President Joseph F. Smith as the speaker.

Andrew Jenson’s Church Chronology of July 20, 1907, records, “an organization known as ‘Sons and Daughters of Utah Pioneers’ was effected in Salt Lake City, with Reed Smoot as president.”

Right: Elder George Albert Smith

the SUP Luncheon Club: On February 29, 1936, newly elected officers of the Salt Lake County organization sponsored a Centennial Banquet at the Hotel Utah. For the moment it gave new life to the SUP. About 350 enthusiastic persons attended, including prominent businessmen and Church leaders from all over the state. President Heber J. Grant was the principal speaker of the evening. Following this banquet it was proposed that a weekly luncheon club be held. March 10, 1936, was set for the Charter Luncheon at the Lion House Social Center. The records show that 78 attended of whom 57 remained for a photograph taken by the Salt Lake Tribune photographer.