John Willard Young

John Willard Young

1844–1924 (79 years)

Hometown: Nauvoo, Illinois

Biography

John Willard Young was a son of Brigham Young who was ordained an apostle in 1855 at age 11—the youngest person ever ordained to that office. However, he was never made a member of the Quorum of the Twelve.

Young’s ordination was part of Brigham Young’s broader effort to establish a succession structure within his own family. He practiced polygamy with six wives. His life was marked by financial difficulties and scandal, including bankruptcy.

He eventually moved to New York City, distancing himself from church activity. His unusual ordination at such a young age and subsequent troubled life make him one of the more peculiar figures in apostolic history.

Served Under

Church presidents during this leader's apostolic service:

Brigham Young Brigham Young 1801–1877 (76 years) John Taylor John Taylor 1808–1887 (78 years) Wilford Woodruff Wilford Woodruff 1807–1898 (91 years) Lorenzo Snow Lorenzo Snow 1814–1901 (87 years) Joseph F. Smith Joseph F. Smith 1838–1918 (80 years) Heber J. Grant Heber J. Grant 1856–1945 (88 years)

Wives (2)

John Willard Young was a polygamist with 2 marriages.

Marriage Age Comparison

2 wives · Ages at marriage

Her age His age Teenage bride (<18)
#NameMarriage DateHer AgeHis AgeAge DiffChildren
1 Elizabeth Brainard Canfield Nov 2, 1867 2323—4
2 Libbie Dryfoos Mar 3, 1893 3048180

Children (4)

With Elizabeth Brainard Canfield (4 children)

  1. John Wesley Young (b. Aug 13, 1868)
  2. Brigham Willard Young (b. Sep 16, 1869)
  3. Hooper Young (b. Mar 12, 1871)
  4. Earl Canfield Young (b. Jan 1, 1872)