Porter Rockwell

Introduction:

Born in Belchertown, Massachusetts on June 28th, 1813, Porter Rockwell has been widely recognized as one of the most legendary figures of the American Wild West. Along with being the personal bodyguard of Joseph Jr. and Brigham Young of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS), he is also known for his association with Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism. His fierce loyalty and unflinching courage made him an indispensable asset in the expansion and protection of the LDS church in its early days. His life is a testament to the power of unwavering faith, loyalty, and conviction.

Basic Information and Background:

Porter Rockwell was born to Orin and Sarah Rockwell, who were neighbors of Joseph Smith. From an early age, he displayed a natural aptitude for hunting, trapping, and horseback riding. At sixteen, he was baptized by the LDS and moved to Nauvoo, Illinois to be with the religious community there. He quickly became known for his fierce loyalty and unflinching devotion to the LDS cause. During this time, he also began to develop a reputation as a fearsome fighter, earning him the nickname "The Destroying Angel of Mormondom".

Career and Important Events in Life:

Rockwell's association with Joseph Smith began in the early 1840s when he joined the Nauvoo Legion, a militia formed for the protection of the LDS community. He soon became Smith's personal bodyguard and remained by his side until Smith's assassination in 1844. Rockwell was accused of being involved in the assassination, but was never charged due to a lack of evidence.

After Smith's death, Rockwell continued to serve as a bodyguard for Brigham Young, the leader of the LDS church. He played a crucial role in the Mormon migration to Utah, accompanying Brigham Young's party to the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. Throughout his life, he took part in many skirmishes and battles with anti-Mormon forces, earning a reputation for his incredible marksmanship and fearless demeanor.

Personality and Motivation:

Rockwell was known for his fierce loyalty to the LDS cause, which he believed was ordained by God. He was also fiercely independent and had a deep sense of personal honor. His sense of duty and devotion to the church led him to take up arms to protect it, even in the face of great danger. He was respected by his peers for his honesty, integrity, and courage.

Before Fame:

Before becoming one of the most legendary figures of the American West, Rockwell faced his fair share of adversity. Growing up in poverty, he was forced to fend for himself from a young age. However, his natural skills in hunting and trapping allowed him to provide for himself and his family. After joining the LDS church, he faced persecution from anti-Mormon forces, but remained steadfast in his faith.

Family Life:

Rockwell was married twice and had children with both of his wives. His first wife, Luana Beebe, passed away in childbirth in 1848, leaving him with two children to raise on his own. He later married Sarah Ann Whitney, with whom he had several children. He was known to be fiercely devoted to his family, often putting their needs above his own.

Linked to Other People in the Industry:

Rockwell was a close friend of Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism. He also had close relationships with other prominent figures in the LDS church, including Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball. In his later years, he became friends with famous lawman and gunfighter Wild Bill Hickok.