Marriner W. Merrill

Marriner Wood Merrill was born Sep 25, 1832 in Sackville, Canada, the eighth of 13 children from Nathan Alexander and Sarah Ann Reynolds Merrill. Marriner served in many callings such as: Bishop of Richmond (1861 - 1879), member of the Cache Stake Presidency (1879 - 1884), first President of the Logan Temple (1884 - 1906), member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (1889 - 1906), post master of Richmond, and a member of the Territorial Legislature. Marriner Wood Merrill is the father of Church Apostle Joseph F. Merrill.

Early Life

Marriner Wood Merrill spent most of his life in Sackville, Canada. Merrill refers to his home in his autobiography. "The County where I was born and spent my early childhood was sparsely settled, and nearly all the people were very poor. The climate was very cold and rigorous, but the country was very heavily timbered. ...My parents being very poor people and schools being scattered and far between is some excuse for the neglect of my early education. ...my parents... did the best they could for their large family."1

Marriner's mother joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1834 or 1835. She was forbidden by Marriner's father from joining the Saints in the States, so she taught Marriner and some of her other children the teachings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. After the death of Marriner's father in 1851, Marriner went head first into the Church, being baptized April 3, 1852 at the age of 20, and ordained a Priest Sep 5, 1852.1

Westward Journey and Early Utah Life

Marriner joined along with his branch and President William Atkinson to join the Saints in Utah in 1853. Marriner was appointed Guard of the Company. "On one occasion I came near being drowned in the Platte River, but thought the blessing of the Lord and the kind aid and assistance of one Brother John Reese, a Welsh Brother with one eye... He being an excellent swimmer, saved me from a watery grave by assisting me from the middle of the river where I had lodged on a sand bar. I being thus saved, we proceeded on our way with joy and thanksgiving." Other major experiences Marriner faced were meeting a ruff group of Sioux Native Americans, and nearly being crushed by many buffalo herds.

Marriner and Company arrived in Salt Lake City, Utah on Sep 11, 1853. "...It was a pleasing spectacle to behold civilization again, and houses wherein people lived with home comforts around them, even if they were in a rude state.... For one emerging from the Great Plains of the West and crossing the Rocky Mountains by ox teams it was indeed a pleasant change of vision, and the reflecting mind would be led to exclaim, 'Surely the God of Israel has been a counselor to this poor exiled people and has blessed the land and country for their sake.' ... There were no grog shops, no drunkenness, no profanity anywhere to be found in all the city of Salt Lake, and the people could lie down in peace and rise up in safety with doors and windows open, and no fears were entertained of burglars or any one to disturb the quit of any one in all the City of the Saints."1

While in the Salt Lake City Valley, Marriner worked many odd jobs. Marriner married Sarah Ann Atkinson Nov 10, 1853 in Salt Lake City. They lived in the Salt Lake area for many years, with neighbor Goudy Hogan nearby.

Move to Richmond

Marriner and family moved from Salt Lake City to Cache Valley in the spring of 1860. They pushed for many days, with some difficulty of snow, but first made their way to the home of Henry Standage in Wellsville, Utah to spend the night. The next morning, the company made their way into Logan, Utah where they lived for only a single day as they felt they were not welcomed in the area. They continued north until Smithfield, Utah, then finally made their way to Richmond where John Bair and Agrippa Cooper welcomed the company. However, Marriner and Co. did not want to live in Richmond.

"We inquired if there were any settlers north of this point, and being answered in the negative, we concluded to go farther north. After our teams had released a couple of days we entered on to the north in the hope of finding a place where the land was not all taken up. We traveled as far as High Cree, about two miles. Here we found the snow much less and plenty of grass in sight for our stock. ... On the following morning we hitched up our teams with the understanding we would move northward. Goudy Hogan, Edwin Pace, Christian Hyer, and myself composed the little company. My teams being the first one ready to start, they, by some instinct unknown to me, started to the south toward Richmond, and I seemed powerless to change their course. ... We soon got back to Richmond. I was then asked by Brothers Pace, Hyer, and Hogan why I came south instead of going north as agreed upon. I told them that my lead oxen seemed to be inspired to come south and that I could not change their course. The Brethren felt that it was right and Proper and that this point was our location."1

Life in Richmond

Early Life in Richmond

After his divine intervention with his cattle, Marriner and family decided best that they should live in Richmond. After Territorial Surveyor Jesse Fox surveyed the land and split it into 20-acre lots, Marriner was able to secure a lot on the south end of Richmond. Marriner built a dugout as a temporary home and began farming and living off the land.1

Farming

Marriner owned many archers of land and grist mills in the production of enterprise and thrift. He had farms in Richmond, such as the South Farm, a gristmill in Cove, and a farm in Lewiston, Utah. He was one of the leading farmers of Cache Valley in its early years.

Richmond Tabernacle

Around 1902, the need for a larger building for worship for Latter-day Saints was needed. After Marriner was released as Stake President of the Cache Stake and the Benson Stake was created from it, Marriner began the effort of building a tabernacle in Richmond for the new Stake and Saints to meet. Marriner helped to pay about $10,000 for the construction of the Tabernacle. Marriner died before the construction of the Tabernacle, and his funeral was the first service held in the incomplete building in 1906.4

Business in Richmond

Rail Line to Richmond

When the Transcontinental Railroad was completed in 1869, Brigham Young and other men in Utah wanted to branch out the line for service and travel. One in particular that was an aid to get the rail line to Cache Valley was the Utah Northern Railroad that reached from Ogden, Utah to Mendon, Utah in 1872. Once the rail was completed and led to Franklin, Idaho, Marriner was appointed Superintendent of the line from Ogden to Franklin. He served as such for only a few years when he resigned to be a contractor for the rail company. He worked on the company, laying track from Franklin, Idaho to Butte, Montana for four years.2 Many who helped with the construction were citizens of Richmond, including many of his own family.

Richmond Cooperative Mercantile Co.

Marriner and others opened the Richmond Cooperative Mercantile Company in 1866. It was the first cooperative store established in the Territory. It started in a small log home before moving into a large, two-story, red brick building on the southwest corner of Main St. and State St. He served as President of the Co-Op until 1880.2

Richmond Grist Mill

With Goudy Hogan and Christina Hyer, Marriner built a grist mill on the Cub River in the Cove area. The building was constructed Feb 12, 1867 and was dedicated by Ezra T. Benson.2

Cache Valley Dairy Co.

Marriner built one of the first creameries in the Territory of Utah in Richmond. The Cache Valley Dairy Company was established in 1890.

Dehydrated Milk Factory

Marriner was a key ingredient when it came to manufacturing the decision to have the Dehydrated Milk Factory built in Richmond. At the point when individuals felt that the need for the Factory should not be placed in Richmond, a meeting was held to discuss what should be done. Marriner, at the meeting, stated "I believe that we have had enough discussion. I move that we proceed to build the plant and that we break ground tomorrow morning. The way will be opened up and we shall have an industry that will be a great benefit to the people. Our people will rejoice in the undertaking and will be proud of the institution." After he said so, efforts were made for the construction of the Factory.4

Church Callings

Second Bishop of Richmond

Marriner Wood Merrill was called to be the second Bishop of Richmond July 21, 1861 and was set apart by Ezra T. Benson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. As Bishop of the Richmond Ward, Marriner kept a strict record of the tithings of the Richmond Saints. As Bishop, Marriner acted as the leader of Richmond, as was common in early LDS Utah Settlements. He was effective in building canals from Cherry Creek and High Creek, building homes for those who needed them, cultivating the area, building fences, school houses, and places of worship.2 He served as Bishop until his call to the Stake Presidency.

Cache Stake Presidency

Marriner was called as the First Counselor of the Cache Stake Presidency May 4, 1879. He served the calling until his call to the Quorum of the Twelve in 1889.2 However, Marriner was called as the President of the Cache Stake on Oct 30, 1899. He was released from his calling in 1901 when the Cache Stake was divided into three stakes, one of which being the Benson Stake.

Logan Utah Temple President

Marriner was called to be the first President of the Logan, Utah Temple in 1884.2 While attending to his duties of the Logan Temple, Marriner relates a story of Satan himself coming to the temple to destroy the work and progress that was being done inside its walls. However, little effect was made in the time the temple has been around for the last 130 years, and work and progress are still being made to this day.

Member of the Quorum of the Twelve

Marriner Wood Merrill was ordained a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Oct 7, 1889 under the hand of President Wilford Woodruff. Marriner served 17 years in the Quorum, giving about a total of 10 General Conference Addresses.

Government Affairs

Richmond Post Master

Marriner Wood Merrill served as the first Postmaster of Richmond from June 15, 1864 for 20 years.2

County Selectman

Marriner served as Cache County Selectman from Aug 5, 1872 to June 2, 1879.2 Roles of a selectman are calling town meetings, proposing budgets, setting public policies, calling elections, licensing, setting fees, overseeing certain volunteer and appointed bodies, and creating basic regulations.3

Utah Territorial Legislature (1874 -1880)

Marriner served two nonconsecutive terms as a member of the Utah Territorial Legislature representing Cache County. Marriner was part of the committees for Revenue, Indian Affairs, and Unfinished Business. Marriner also added in the redrawing of boundaries for Richmond and Logan.2

Family

Polygamy

Marriner Wood Merrill entered into the practice of Polygamy when he married his second wife, Cyrene Standley, June 5, 1856. Marriner also married Almira Jane Bainbridge, April 1, 1865; Maria Loenza Kingsbury, Oct 4, 1867; Elna Johnsson, Feb 11, 1885, Jenny Betty Victoria Jacobsen, March 11, 1886; Anna Sofia Engman Anderson, July 18, 1889; and Hilda Maria Erickson, April 7, 1901.

After the Edmunds-Tucker Acts passed in 1887, making polygamy unlawful, the Church continued to practice their faith, but with the new stress of having the government following and finding those who would not give into the law. Marriner's homes and businesses were fit with passages and libraries that, if Marriner was found with his families, he could hide and not be found. However, Marriner was only arrested once and was not convicted for his practice as there was a large lack of evidence. Thus, Marriner never had to use his passageways or secret libraries to hide from the law.2

Father

Marriner fathered 45 children. Some in particular are:

• Joseph Francis Merrill, his mother being Mariah Loenza Kingsbury. Joseph served as a bishop, stake president councilor, and later as an Apostle of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

• Anna Mae Merrill, her mother being Hilda Maria Erickson. She was the last child born to Marriner Wood Merrill in 1902.

• Hattie Loenza Merrill, her mother being Mariah Loenza Kingsbury. Currently has her home as a national monument, the Hattie Merrill Morrison Farmstead.

Father-in-law

Marriner was the father-in-law to many great individuals of Richmond, such as:

• Clarence L. Funk, husband of Laura Vilate Merrill

• James W. Funk, husband of Lucy Alcena Merrill

• William Smith Hendricks, husband of Roda Louisa Merrill

Education

On a drive with his son, Joseph F. Merrill asked his father if he could go to Ann Arbor to the University of Michigan to attend the 1889 school year. To Joseph's surprise, Marriner said "Yes, and I will keep you there... I have been handicapped all my life by a lack of education. So I decided to give my children an education instead of leaving them anything to quarrel over after I am gone!"5

Education was very important to Marriner and to his children. Out of his 45 children, 13 received Bachelor's Degrees, five received Master's Degrees, and five received Ph.D.s. 12 children taught elementary, two were principals, one a superintendent, four taught high schools, seven taught in universities, and four were deans or directors. Marriner's grandson, Milton Reese Merrill, has the Merrill-Cazier Library at Utah State University named after himself.

Sermons

Richmond Conference

July 4, 1892. Merrill expresses his gratitude for the country and the pride he has in its institutions during a celebration of national independence. Merrill emphasizes the divine inspiration behind the foundational principles of government and reflects on the nation's resilience in the face of challenges. He underscore the importance of peace while also highlighting the willingness of their fellow citizens to defend the country if needed. Merrill recounts past sacrifices made by their people and emphasizes their commitment to freedom and loyalty to the Constitution. Looking to the future, Merrill envisions Utah as a recognized and respected independent commonwealth with a voice in self-governance. He acknowledges the influence of Providence in shaping destinies and express hope for justice and equality. Ultimately, Merrill assures the citizens of Richmond that they will soon enjoy the same rights and privileges as citizens in any other part of the country. 

General Conference

April 4, 1890. In his first General Conference, Marriner Wood Merrill reflects on the history of the Church and defends the departed leaders against accusations of disloyalty. He emphasizes their loyalty to both the government and the Church, and highlights the policy of non-violence, quoting President Young's advice: "Don't shed their blood; feed them rather than fight them." Merrill urges humility and peacefulness in approaching the conference, emphasizes the importance of building temples, and encourages individuals to seek a personal relationship with the Lord. He testifies of the truthfulness of the work and the prophetic calling of Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, and John Taylor.

October 4, 1897. During his sermon, Marriner Wood Merrill expresses his unwavering belief in the truth of the work and his personal testimony from the Lord. He proclaims, "I know that this work is true. I know that Joseph the Prophet was chosen as an instrument in the hands of the Lord to establish the Gospel in the earth in this dispensation." Merrill highlights the danger of finding fault with Church leaders and the importance of sustaining them, stating, "I have always looked upon it as a very dangerous thing for a member of the Church to find fault with the servants of God, to criticize the actions of the Priesthood." He emphasizes the need for humility, prayer, and adherence to the counsel of the Priesthood, saying, "Hence the importance, my brethren and sisters, of trying to cultivate the spirit of humility, of meekness, and of kindness, and attending to the labors that pertain to us in the Gospel." Merrill also underscores the significance of personal testimonies and seeking guidance from the living oracles of the Church, declaring, "Every man and woman has the right to have a testimony of this work. We may have the evidence for ourselves. The heavens have been opened, and they are open to the faithful people of God today." He concludes with his testimony of the truth and divinity of the Church, proclaiming, "I feel this morning to praise the Father because of His goodness and mercy, and because of His name and to bear testimony to my brethren and sisters and friends of the truth and divinity of this great work." 

April 8, 1898. Merrill emphasizes the importance of paying tithes and offerings and living frugally to improve the financial condition of the Latter-day Saints. He shares a personal story of advising a friend to pay his tithing and retrench his expenses, which resulted in financial success. The speaker encourages the Saints to follow this example, promising that if they faithfully observe these principles, they will be relieved from debt and become a free and prosperous people. He highlights the significance of tithing as a law revealed by God and urges the Saints to be prudent and careful with their finances. Merrill also discusses the growth of missionary work and the need for young men to be honorable representatives of the Church. He concludes by expressing his hope that the Saints will reflect on their responsibilities and seek instruction from the priesthood to remain steadfast and safe in their faith. 

April 10, 1898. Merrill emphasizes the importance of teaching children their mother tongue and preserving language heritage. They highlight that many foreign-born parents in the community have failed to pass on their language to their children, resulting in a language gap. Merrill shares a personal experience of a couple who successfully taught their children their mother tongue, emphasizing the benefits of bilingualism. He urges members of the Church to prioritize language preservation, particularly for missionaries going to foreign countries, as well as for individuals who have lived near temples but have not engaged in ancestral temple work. Merrill calls for a serious consideration of these matters, emphasizing the obligation to honor and remember our ancestors. 

October 6, 1898. Merrill emphasizes the purpose of the conference, which is to be instructed, listen to the voice of the Spirit, and find refreshing from the Lord. He acknowledges the Lord's merciful dealings with the Latter-day Saints and the abundant blessings they have received. Merrill highlights the importance of the Church organization and the need for frequent meetings and counsel to ensure the welfare of the members. He encourages faith and the instilling of it in children and young people. Merrill expresses the significance of temple work and the responsibility to seek after and care for the welfare of one's kindred. He urges the leaders to hold council meetings and make decisions by common consent to promote harmony and unity. Drawing from his experience in pioneer times, Merrill emphasizes the need for unity, counsel, and love among the Saints, as well as respect for Church leaders.

April 6, 1899. Merrill discusses various subjects addressed at conferences and emphasizes the importance of being open to learning. He expresses his gratitude for being part of the general conference and reflects on the remarks he has heard, which have reminded him of the growth and spread of the Latter-day Saints. Merrill shares an encounter with a man from San Francisco who had no knowledge of their church and emphasizes the need for outreach and sharing their doctrines. He encourages the Saints to seek personal evidence of the truth, while also addressing temporal matters. Merrill highlights the need for self-sufficiency, supporting the poor within the Church, and avoiding debt. He advises young people to marry at a suitable age, work towards independence, and consider opportunities outside the city. Merrill stresses the importance of heeding the counsel of the Lord's servants and concludes that listening to the whisperings of the Holy Spirit and following the priesthood's guidance are vital for salvation and eternal life. 

October 6, 1899. Merrill addresses the congregation in a solemn assembly, urging self-reflection and seeking divine guidance. He emphasizes the importance of testimonies and the continued presence of God's gifts and blessings within the Church. Merrill highlights President Lorenzo Snow's revelation on tithing and encourages faithful payment. He emphasizes the benefits of paying tithes and warns against financial bondage. Merrill acknowledges challenges faced by some, but assures that the Lord will provide prosperity through diligence. He expresses gratitude for the blessings upon the Church and encourages personal revelation-seeking. Merrill concludes by urging the congregation to share the conference's spirit and seek the Lord's approval and blessings. 

October 8, 1899. Merrill highlights the significance of temple work, stressing the importance of contemplating and engaging in it, considering the substantial financial investment and the existence of deceased ancestors who may not have had the opportunity to embrace the Gospel. He emphasizes the connection between the living and the dead through revealed keys and encourages the acquisition of genealogical records, cautioning against procrastination and the potential obstacles that may arise if one delays this sacred duty. Merrill shares examples of individuals who have neglected their ancestral work, urging the congregation to prioritize it amidst their other responsibilities and be mindful of Satan's influence. Ultimately, he implores everyone not to forget their forefathers and kindred beyond the veil, invoking blessings and a desire for divine guidance in fulfilling their obligations in this mortal existence. 

April 7, 1900. Merrill, expresses his gratitude for being part of the Church and emphasizes the importance of staying faithful. He acknowledges the blessings of fellowship within the Church and the need to prioritize one's obligations to it. Merrill encourages members to strive for unity, abide by the counsel of Church leaders, and avoid involvement in secret societies. He highlights the dangers of indulging in unprofitable activities and urges families to focus on the Gospel and Church organizations. Merrill emphasizes the significance of paying tithes and offerings and promises blessings for those who observe this law. He encourages members to trust in the Lord, be consistent in their lives, and foster love, reverence, and obedience within their families. Merrill urges individuals to prioritize prayer, family unity, and fulfilling their calling in the ministry. He concludes by emphasizing the satisfaction and joy that come from keeping the commandments and expressing his prayer for God's guidance and blessings. 

October 6, 1900. Merrill covers various topics in his speech. He acknowledges the impact of singing at conferences but emphasizes the purpose of mutual improvement and receiving instructions applicable to daily life. Merrill believes that if all Latter-day Saints fulfilled their duties, conditions would greatly improve. He highlights a laxity among many Saints and the need for continuous improvement. Merrill emphasizes the importance of the Church's divine organization and the neglected state of some Church organizations. He emphasizes the need for attention to families and children, sharing personal experiences with prayer. Merrill urges teachers to fulfill their responsibilities and promote unity among the Saints. He calls for increased efforts by bishops and stake presidents to seek out and minister to the members. Merrill stresses the importance of paying tithes and offerings, even for non-members. He speculates about the identity of the man foretold to lead the people and discusses the blessings and importance of temple work. Merrill concludes with a prayer for unity, love, and fulfilling their earthly mission. 

April 6, 1901. Merrill begins by expressing gratitude for the large attendance at the conference and reflects on the changes that have occurred since the first conference they attended. He mentions the construction of new buildings, including the Tabernacle and four Temples, and the progress and blessings the people of God have experienced. Merrill emphasizes the importance of temple work and salvation for the dead, urging the Saints to actively engage in this work and seek their kindred's salvation. He discuss the need for greater involvement and dedication from the High Council and Stake Presidency in resolving conflicts and converting non-tithe payers. Merrill encourages regular meetings, singing, and prayer as a means to soften hearts and settle disputes. He calls for an awakening among the priesthood holders and the importance of family leaders fulfilling their responsibilities. Merrill highlights the unique opportunities and inspirations available to the Latter-day Saints and the role they will play in the future. He stresses the need for an awakening among the Saints, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the order of the Church and not changing the ordinances or neglecting tithes and offerings.

October 5, 1901. Merrill expressed his pleasure in being associated with the conference and emphasized the importance of personal testimonies and manifestations from the Lord. He acknowledged that not all Latter-day Saints may have experienced such manifestations but highlighted the increased opportunities to learn and understand the Gospel through auxiliary organizations in the Church. Merrill urged the need for improvement within the Church, addressing issues like profanity and vices, and called for collective efforts to institute reforms and uphold chaste and God-fearing values. He emphasized the significance of seeking counsel from the priesthood and working in harmony with the Church's guidance. Merrill encouraged the abolition of saloons and stressed the importance of family devotional exercises and temple work, urging the Saints to prioritize the ordinance work for their deceased relatives. He also mentioned the importance of paying tithes and offerings to support the work of the Lord. Merrill concluded by expressing his belief in the blessings of the Lord upon the people and encouraged them to strive for higher standards in their devotion and service. 

April 5, 1902. Merrill reflects on his 51 years in the Church and his various roles, expressing his unworthiness for the positions he held. He testifies of the truthfulness of the Church and the role of Joseph Smith as a prophet. Merrill emphasizes the importance of faithfulness, obedience to commandments, and paying tithes and offerings. He encourages individuals to support themselves and others through employment and generous offerings. Merrill urges continuous reminders about tithing in wards, emphasizing the importance of paying it regularly. He acknowledges the blessings and faith exhibited by the Saints and recounts instances where prayers for rain were answered. Merrill advises against impulsive relocation, urging members to seek counsel from Church leaders. He emphasizes the significance of temple work and the need to remember and assist deceased ancestors. He concludes by exhorting faithfulness, humility, and prayer for Church leaders and the overall prosperity of the Church. 

October 6, 1902. Merrill expressed his satisfaction with the conference meetings so far, stating that they have been interesting and spiritually nourishing. He acknowledged the progress and growth of the Church over the years, despite the passing of several leaders. Merrill also emphasized the importance of caring for the poor and reaching out to every member of the Church, including non-members. He urged the Teachers to fulfill their duty of visiting families and offering counsel. Merrill advised against going into debt and encouraged prompt payment of tithes and offerings. He suggested utilizing local labor for building projects and minimizing requests for assistance from the Church. Merrill concluded by testifying that this is the work of the Lord and that the prophets, including Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, continue to watch over the Church.

April 6, 1903. In his final conference talk before his death in 1906, Marriner expressed gratitude for attending the conference and praised the format of hearing from stake presidents and mission leaders. He emphasized the importance of teaching young men and women useful trades, rather than solely relying on technical schools. Marriner urged Bishops and stake presidents to take the lead in this matter. He discussed the need for artisans and employment opportunities within the country. Marriner advised against going into debt and encouraged prompt payment of tithing. He emphasized the importance of living within one's means and avoiding unnecessary expenses. Marriner urged young people to marry and emphasized the significance of temple marriage. He encouraged the Saints to seek guidance from the Spirit and the counsel of Church leaders. Marriner concluded by bearing testimony of the truthfulness of the work and the divine calling of Joseph Smith.