EZRA THOMPSON CLARK 1845

The life of this man is the story of a pioneer who exhibited profound loyalty to family and church. As a pioneer, he accepted the challenges of rugged frontier life. As a faithful member of his church, he was also the much loved and respected father of a large posterity. He was a man of considerable quality.

He was the tenth child born to Timothy and Polly Keeler Clark on November 23, 1823 in Lawrenceville, Illinois. He had three months of formal education. Beyond this, his mother and "life" were his teachers. His parents exchanged their feather bed for equipment needed for survival on the frontier. The family spent the winter of 1849 in East Canyon, Bountiful. He knew the taste of Sego Lily bulbs and spring weeds. In 1850, he moved to Farmington, Utah.

His enormous strength and vitality allowed him to help establish three colonies, build a flour mill, a molasses mill and fulfill five preaching missions. He was particularly interested in the "Emigration Fund" which helped new members get to Utah. His personal, financial assistance helped 75 converts get to Utah. A yoke of his black oxen made seven trips across the plains.

Ezra became the responsible provider for three wives and 21 children. He made few mistakes in his financial dealings and never speculated in ventures. He felt secure. His greatest success was in keeping the love of his family and church. Ezra, along with others, founded Davis County bank and he was elected president. He died on October 17, 1901 in Farmington, Utah.

Submitted by Jeanetta Robinson