Elias Smith (Mormon)

Elias Smith (September 6, 1804 – June 24, 1888) was an early leader in the Latter Day Saint movement and a prominent figure in Utah Territory. He was a cousin of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement.

Smith served as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, proselyting in various parts of the United States. He later joined the Mormon exodus to the West, arriving in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847 with the first company of Mormon pioneers.

Following his arrival in Utah, Smith held several key positions. He served as the first probate judge of Great Salt Lake County. He was also a member of the Utah Territorial Legislature for many years.

Elias Smith also served as the Presiding Bishop of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1849 until his death in 1888. As Presiding Bishop, he oversaw the temporal affairs of the church, including the collection and disbursement of tithing and other funds. He was influential in establishing many of the church's financial and welfare programs.

Smith was a staunch advocate for the Mormon community and played a significant role in the development of Utah Territory. He was married to Lucy Bigelow Smith and had several children.