Here in UT we celebrate Pioneer Day on July 24th. The festivities include items not only of our state but also of our country. Because of this I usually leave my patriotic décor out until the end of July.
I have had mine up since June in celebration of Flag Day and I was ready for a change.
I thought it would be fun to decorate my mantle in celebration of my Pioneer heritage.
Although I was raised Catholic until the age of 12 and am a convert to the LDS church I have Pioneer heritage on my mothers side.
The Pioneers were hard working people.
(This info came when I googled: Utah Pioneer)
The definition of a Utah Pioneer was long ago established as one who came to the Valley, was born here, or one who died on the way before May 10, 1869.
(They worked hard and long and didn’t buy their butter in a box)
But the honored title “Pioneer” means much more than when or how they came.
(foods were preserved to get them through the hard winters)
These pioneers were “uncommon common people” — noble souls engaged in a noble quest, people who in their hearts possessed great faith in God, dedicated Saints who were driven by great devotion to a worthy cause. They were people who were obedient to the call of prophets, and they were people who were determined to succeed — and did succeed — at all costs. When their own work was finished, the world was a better place because of them.
I love that last statement from Google. I truly feel in my heart that it describes them perfectly!
(They were not a vain people, but surely the Pioneer woman cherished what few pretty items they could carry across the plains with them)
(perhaps something as simple as a pretty hair brush was considered a luxury)
They always carried a hankie in the pocket of their dress or apron. Think of the smudges and tears that would have been wiped from their children and perhaps their own faces.
It’s hard to think of the hardships that the Pioneers faced. Can you imagine packing up only a few belongings onto a covered wagon or handcart and heading off into the wilderness?
Our sweet mother taught us not to judge people by their faith. There are good and bad people in every religion.
I love people for who they are! But I am proud of my Pioneer ancestors!
hugs,
Jann
I will be sharing with these fun parties:
17 comments
What a good heritage to be descended from. It reminds me of that PBS show Frontier House.
Interesting history. I didn't know Utah celebrated a special day honoring the pioneers. But these tough, determined people deserved to be honored! Thanks for sharing.
Nice post Jann on the pioneers. To think of trying to set up a home and carve out a life in the wilderness! They did carve the way for those who came after them and that is a true blessing. Thanks for the history and I love your mantel. So cute.
Kris
Love your mantel in honor of Pioneer Day!!
~Cindy
Great post! I love vintage.
Which comes from our Heritage.
Very information post. Thanks for sharing this!
What a sweet mantel with all kinds of vintage things used in a pioneer home. Love the hankies too. Thanks for the reminder of our hardworking ancestors!
What an interesting story!
My family could be considered Florida pioneers who helped settle an area in north Florida and established the first Presbyterian church there.
I just love our country's history and how all people pulled together to build communities of faith everywhere!
This is a great post, and I learned a little bit more about your home state!
I love it all Jann! LOVE the hankies especially. Vintage and Pioneer! You can't go wrong! Hugs and blessings, Cindy
I love your tribute to the Pioneer heritage on your mantel. Just perfect considering it is your own heritage too. I've often thought about their hard way of life (whenever I see it in a movie). They certainly paved the way for the rest of us!
Hey Jann! Loved this post, so much rich history, so inspiring! I'm wondering if you received the email I sent you a week or so ago? ~Ann
Tarnished Royalty
Love this post :) I have a prior neighbor who had to move to Alabama and now they relocated to Utah. ( Military / Airforce ) I think she's close to Salt Lake City / I told her on FB that you were in Alpine and to check out your blog.
Your Mum was a smart woman!!
Loved hearing about your heritage.
Leann
I do not think I could be as strong as the pioneer women were. We are spoiled by our luxuries.
Very cool heritage to have for sure. Loved seeing all the antique items.
"When their own work was finished, the world was a better place because of them." what a love sentiment! I can't imagine leaving with so little - I can barely pack for vacation without a list!
I'm especially loving the hankies clothes-pinned to the twine :)
Thanks for sharing @ TTF!
Since you have pioneer heritage on your Mother's side, you should join Daughter of Utah Pioneers. Both my grandmothers belonged and I remember attending a meeting in Alpin in the green DUP building. My great-grandmother Melissa Brown was also a member, even though she wasn't far off from being a pioneer herself. I joined in 2003 and have been able to write a few histories to go in the files in SLC.
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