elder william smith

Elder William Smith: A Groovy History of “Gospel”

Elder William Smith, often called “The Patriarch,” was a pivotal figure in the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). While not a musician himself, his role as the patriarch to the Church and his writings had a profound impact on the development of Latter-day Saint music, specifically hymnody.

Early Days:

• Early LDS pioneers often sang hymns from other denominations, but the need for hymns specific to their beliefs and experiences grew.
• William Smith, with his deep understanding of scripture and the doctrines of the Church, provided a rich wellspring of inspiration for hymn writers.
• He emphasized themes of family, faith, and the future in his writings, themes that resonated with early Latter-day Saints.

The Birth of a Genre:

• Smith’s influence was instrumental in shaping the sound and content of Mormon hymns, which developed a distinct character.
• These hymns were often characterized by their simplicity, devotional focus, and emphasis on communal singing.
• Many popular LDS hymns, like “Come, Come, Ye Saints” and “O My Father,” were born out of this period.

Funny Facts:

• The “Hymn of the Week” phenomenon: In the early days, there was no official hymnal. One particularly enthusiastic elder, known for his booming voice, would often lead the congregation in his favorite hymn, even if it wasn’t what was scheduled for the week. This eventually led to the development of a standardized hymnal, but the tradition of passionate singing remains!
• The “Lost Hymn”: A tale of a lost hymn attributed to Smith himself is told. It was a beautiful piece, said to bring tears to the eyes of all who heard it, but somehow vanished. Some believe it still exists, hidden within a dusty tome in a forgotten attic.
• The “Singing Cowboy”: One pioneer preacher, a known enthusiast of the harmonica, would often lead the hymns with the accompaniment of his trusty harmonica. He was even known to perform lively “cowboy” tunes during campfires, much to the amusement of the community.

Legacy:

• Elder William Smith’s legacy in the realm of LDS music is undeniable.
• His writings and spirit continue to inspire hymns and songs that resonate with the LDS community today.
• The music of the LDS Church, born from the need for expression and inspired by the writings of William Smith, continues to grow and evolve, while maintaining its unique character.

So, there you have it. Elder William Smith, the patriarch who indirectly influenced the development of a beautiful and unique musical tradition. Even though he wasn’t a musician himself, his spirit lives on in the hymns that continue to inspire generations of Latter-day Saints.