Parley P. Pratt, one of the early leaders and apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, met a tragic and violent end in 1857. His death was the result of personal and religious tensions that had escalated over time, eventually culminating in his murder. Pratt’s influence on early Mormon theology, literature, and missionary work was significant, making his untimely death a deeply impactful event in church history. His assassination was not only a personal loss but also highlighted the dangers faced by early Latter-day Saint missionaries and the religious animosities of the time.
Parley P. Pratt’s Background and Influence
Early Life and Religious Conversion
Born on April 12, 1807, in Burlington, New York, Parley Parker Pratt grew up in a modest family and developed a strong religious curiosity at a young age. He was originally associated with the Disciples of Christ, also known as the Campbellites, but his religious journey took a dramatic turn when he encountered the Book of Mormon in 1830. Deeply moved by its message, he was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and became one of its most devoted missionaries and theologians.
Role in the Latter-day Saint Movement
Pratt was called as an apostle in 1835 and quickly became one of the most prominent voices in the church. He authored several influential works, includingVoice of Warning, which helped spread Mormon doctrine across the United States and Europe. His dedication to missionary work took him to Canada, the British Isles, and South America. He was a close associate of Joseph Smith and later Brigham Young, playing key roles in church governance and westward migration.
The Events Leading to His Death
Marriage to Eleanor McLean
The chain of events that led to Pratt’s murder began with his plural marriage to Eleanor McLean, a woman who had left her non-Mormon husband, Hector McLean. Eleanor and Hector had a troubled marriage, and she eventually joined the Latter-day Saints, embracing their faith and polygamous practices. She and Pratt were married in 1855, which further enraged her former husband.
Hector McLean was particularly incensed by Eleanor’s decision to take their children and join Pratt. He blamed Pratt for encouraging Eleanor to leave and believed the apostle had destroyed his family. This personal vendetta set the stage for a tragic confrontation.
Legal Trouble and Pursuit
In 1857, Pratt traveled through Arkansas as part of his missionary efforts. During this time, McLean filed criminal charges against him, including theft (related to the removal of the children) and aiding in kidnapping. Pratt was arrested and brought to trial, but he was ultimately acquitted due to lack of evidence. However, this did not satisfy Hector McLean’s thirst for vengeance.
Just hours after Pratt was released from custody in Van Buren, Arkansas, McLean and two accomplices began to follow him. Knowing he was being pursued, Pratt tried to flee, but the men eventually caught up with him near Alma, Arkansas.
The Murder of Parley P. Pratt
The Final Encounter
On May 13, 1857, Parley P. Pratt was attacked and murdered by Hector McLean. According to eyewitness accounts and historical records, McLean approached Pratt on horseback, confronted him, and shot him multiple times. He also stabbed him in the chest, ensuring that the wounds were fatal. Pratt managed to stagger away but died shortly thereafter under a tree in the countryside.
Pratt’s final words reflected his religious convictions. He reportedly expressed forgiveness for his attacker and reaffirmed his belief in the eternal nature of his soul. His body was later discovered by locals and buried in the area, far from his home and fellow church members.
Aftermath and Reactions
The murder of Parley P. Pratt sent shockwaves through the Latter-day Saint community. He was regarded as a martyr by many church members, who saw his death as a consequence of his unwavering commitment to his faith and religious teachings. Church leaders condemned the violence and viewed it as part of a broader pattern of persecution against Latter-day Saints.
Despite the brutal nature of the crime, Hector McLean was never brought to justice. The authorities in Arkansas did not pursue further legal action against him, likely due to prevailing anti-Mormon sentiments and sympathies toward McLean’s perspective as a wronged husband. This lack of accountability only deepened the sense of injustice felt by the Mormon community.
Legacy of Parley P. Pratt
Theological Contributions
Parley P. Pratt’s writings had a profound and lasting impact on Latter-day Saint theology. His ability to articulate complex religious concepts in accessible language helped bridge the gap between doctrine and everyday faith. His works continue to be read and studied by members of the church today.
Missionary and Literary Work
Beyond theology, Pratt was a poet, hymn writer, and prolific author. Many of his hymns are still included in Latter-day Saint hymnals, and his missionary success helped establish the church in multiple countries. He was instrumental in converting thousands and laying the foundation for the global church that exists today.
Family and Descendants
Pratt’s legacy lives on through his large family and descendants, many of whom became influential in religious, political, and academic circles. Among his descendants is former U.S. presidential candidate Mitt Romney. His family tree reflects the enduring influence of his life and beliefs.
A Life of Faith, A Death of Violence
Parley P. Pratt died on May 13, 1857, the victim of a murder driven by personal vengeance and religious conflict. His assassination in Arkansas marked a dark chapter in the history of early Mormonism, highlighting the dangers faced by its leaders during a time of widespread hostility. Despite his violent end, Pratt’s life remains a testament to his dedication, intellect, and missionary zeal. He is remembered not only for how he died but for how he lived boldly defending his beliefs, spreading his faith, and shaping a religious movement that continues to grow more than a century later.