Zina D. H. Young

Zina D. H. Young

Zina Diantha Huntington Jacobs Smith Young (January 31, 1821 – August 28, 1901) was a leader in the early history of the Latter Day Saint movement and a prominent figure in women's history in the United States. She was a plural wife of Brigham Young, the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), and was heavily involved in the establishment and promotion of the Relief Society, one of the oldest and largest women's organizations in the world.

Early Life

Zina D. H. Young was born in Watertown, New York, to William Huntington and Zina Baker Huntington. Her family was among the early converts to the Latter Day Saint movement founded by Joseph Smith. In her youth, Zina moved with her family to Kirtland, Ohio, where the early Latter Day Saint community was gathering. It was in Kirtland that she first became acquainted with Joseph Smith and his teachings.

Marriage and Family

Zina married Henry Bailey Jacobs in 1841. However, after Joseph Smith introduced the principle of plural marriage, Zina, while still legally married to Jacobs, was sealed to Joseph Smith in 1841. After Smith's death, she was married to Brigham Young according to the practice of plural marriage within the community. Zina bore two children with Jacobs and later had one child with Brigham Young.

Relief Society Involvement

Zina D. H. Young played a significant role in the Relief Society, an organization founded in 1842 for women in the Latter Day Saint movement. She served in various leadership positions, including as a counselor to Eliza R. Snow in the Relief Society's general presidency. Zina's work with the Relief Society included advocating for women's rights, promoting education for women, and organizing charitable works. She was instrumental in expanding the role of the Relief Society within the LDS Church and the broader community.

Later Years and Legacy

In her later years, Zina D. H. Young continued to be an active participant in church and community affairs. She was known for her speeches and writings on women's rights, education, and the importance of the Relief Society. Zina passed away on August 28, 1901, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Zina D. H. Young's legacy is remembered for her contributions to the empowerment of women within the LDS Church and her efforts in establishing the Relief Society as a vital organization for women's service and education. Her life and work are celebrated as part of the rich history of women in the Latter Day Saint movement.