Alvin Smith (brother of Joseph Smith)

Alvin Smith

Alvin Smith (February 11, 1798 – November 19, 1823) was the eldest brother of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, which includes denominations like the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the Community of Christ. Alvin played a significant role in the early life of Joseph Smith and is often mentioned in the context of the Smith family's early history.

Early Life

Alvin Smith was born in Tunbridge, Vermont, to Lucy Mack Smith and Joseph Smith Sr., who were farmers. The Smith family faced several financial difficulties and moved several times during Alvin's childhood, eventually settling in western New York. Alvin, like the rest of his family, worked on the family farm and was instrumental in helping his family try to make ends meet.

Influence on Joseph Smith

Alvin was deeply supportive of his younger brother Joseph's early spiritual experiences. When Joseph Smith claimed to have visions leading to the discovery of the Book of Mormon, Alvin encouraged him to be obedient to the divine instructions he received. Although Alvin died before the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was formally organized, his support and belief in Joseph's visions were significant to Joseph and the early development of the movement.

Death and Legacy

Alvin Smith died on November 19, 1823, at the age of 25, from what was suspected to be a case of gastric fever or poisoning. His death had a profound impact on his family, especially on Joseph, who was deeply affected by the loss of his brother. Alvin's death is often cited as a pivotal moment in Joseph Smith's life, influencing his religious convictions and the path that would lead to the founding of the Latter Day Saint movement.

Alvin's commitment to his family and his early death are commemorated in several Latter-day Saint writings and histories. Joseph Smith later claimed that Alvin appeared to him in a vision in 1836, assuring him of his salvation and place in the afterlife, which underscored the importance of family and the eternal nature of familial bonds in Latter-day Saint theology.

In Latter-day Saint Theology

Alvin Smith's life and early death are sometimes discussed in the context of Latter-day Saint teachings on the Plan of Salvation, particularly the doctrine concerning work for the dead, including baptism for the dead. His death before the formal establishment of the church and the ordinances of salvation led to revelations and teachings about the ability of the deceased to receive the gospel and ordinances in the afterlife, a doctrine that remains a significant aspect of Latter-day Saint belief.

Memorials

Alvin Smith is buried in the Smith Family Cemetery in Nauvoo, Illinois, where a monument commemorates his life and contributions to the early history of the Latter Day Saint movement. His memory is preserved within the community as a symbol of familial loyalty and early sacrifice in the development of the church.