2017 NATIONAL HISTORIC SYMPOSIUM

Our annual   History   Symposium   which   was   developed   and   conducted under the creative experience of our 2018 President-elect, Keith Van Roosendaal.  We all were educated and entertained by five very special and well-known presenters. Beginning with Susan Easton Black and her husband, George Durrant, who informed us of many lesser known facts and engaging anecdotes in the lives of Joseph and Emma Smith. They were followed by Mary Ellen Elggren and her presentation on Brigham Young, her great-great-grandfather, and his Human and Humorous side.  Thomas Alexander, our past President, gave insight into Wilford Woodruff’s Spiritual gifts and his experiences as St George Temple President. Our final presenter was Ronald L. Anderson, who shared a remarkable view of the relationship between Abraham Lincoln, Joseph Smith, and the Latter-day Saints. 

The evening dinner session gave the special opportunity to hear from our keynote speaker, President Cecil O. Samuelson, former president of BYU and currently President of the Salt Lake Temple. Once again, we gained new insight into the history and function of the temple. We enjoyed the event in the comfortable setting of our National Headquarters.

A special note: Dr. William H Tanner, who is currently the Publisher of our “Pioneer Magazine,” was presented with the Presidential Meritorious Service Award in recognition for his dedication and fantastic service over the years to the Sons of Utah Pioneers and the Pioneer Magazine, which is often referred to as the “Crown Jewel” of The Sons of Utah Pioneers. Dr. Tanner’s work rises far beyond all expectation. Congratulations Bill, you deserve it.