Phineas Young was born on February 16, 1799, in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. He was raised in a Protestant family and even served as a Methodist minister for a period of time. However, his life took a dramatic turn in 1832 when he was introduced to The Book of Mormon by a missionary named Samuel Smith. This introduction led Phineas, along with his brothers John, Joseph, and Brigham, to participate in a Mormon baptism ceremony and become some of the first converts to the Latter Day Saint movement.
After joining the Latter Day Saints, Phineas Young became a prominent figure in the movement. He eventually settled in Salt Lake City and played a significant role in leading Mormon missions in England. His dedication to spreading the teachings of the Latter Day Saints earned him a reputation as a dedicated missionary.
Phineas Young had a complex family life, as was common among early Mormon leaders. He was known to have had nine wives: Clarissa Hamilton, Lucy Cowdery, Sarah Hollister, Phebe Clark, Maria James, Elizabeth Rea, Harriet Little, Constantia Langdo, and Lavina Clark. His ability to manage such a large family speaks to his strong leadership skills and commitment to his faith.
Following the death of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, there was uncertainty about who would lead the church. Phineas Young was a vocal supporter of his brother Brigham Young's leadership and endorsed him as the new president of the LDS Church. Phineas's support played a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition of power and maintaining unity within the Mormon community.
Phineas Young's contributions to the Latter Day Saint movement were significant and long-lasting. As one of the first converts and missionaries, he played a crucial role in spreading the teachings of the church and helping to establish a strong presence in Salt Lake City and beyond. His commitment to his faith and his family set an example for future generations of Mormons and cemented his place in LDS Church history.