Archives West Finding Aid

The Mathew Rowan papers [photocopies] (1853-1864) consist of the Rowan family history and a journal, both written by Mathew Rowan while serving a mission in England for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Rowan began writing the family history, and his journal, shortly after his 1853 marriage to Jane Martin in Worcester, England. Together the two documents document his activities as a private citizen and as an official for the LDS church in England and Utah. The Family History and the journal together record Rowan's memories of his family and childhood while growing up in southwestern Scotland and his personal experiences later in life. His family was poor, and he describes working in mines as well as family problems with alcoholism and disease. Included are descriptions of family events, his travels throughout England as a missionary for the LDS church, and his responsibilities as President of the Worcester and Sheffield Branches of the LDS Church. Included are financial details of his expenses and the records of the Worcester Branch, including money donated for the building of the Salt Lake LDS Temple.

Later, Rowan and his family immigrated to Utah, and the ocean voyage and cross-country trek are recorded in the documents. Life on board the ship is described in detail in his journal, which concludes on reaching New York. Continuing his Family History, Mathew tells of meeting other Mormons in St. Louis, from where the Rowan family started across the plains. In Utah, he describes starting his farm, and lists what he paid for equipment and animals. He also recounts how he and his wife are baptized and sealed by Brigham Young, of serving in the Mormon Batallion, the death of his first wife, and of his remarriage. The Family History concludes with the documentation of his family's individual "Patriarchal Blessings."